The beautiful, intelligent, well-groomed mid-30s contestant stood before five interview judges, competing a third time for the state “Mrs.” title. She’d worked hard exercising for swimsuit, practicing her on-stage walk and selecting the perfect pageant wardrobe. Having grown up in a broken home of meager financial means, however, she was embarrassed by and intentionally avoided discussing her childhood in the interview. After all her preparation, because she didn’t project the warmth and confidence required to sell herself, once again she didn’t make the semifinals.

Previously, we explored how goals—in modeling, acting, pageants or a 9-to-5 profession—are achieved with winning interview skills and a distinctive, memorable first impression. Just like learning an instrument, we all improve through preparation and practice to develop a comfort level and project the enthusiastic you.

Think anyone enjoys interviewing? Since we’re rarely taught how to approach it, clients have actually confessed to me that they stayed in positions they hated for years because they despised interviews even more. You can approach entertainment industry, pageant or job interviews with amazing confidence knowing you’re so thoroughly prepared you’ll be the rare applicant selling yourself successfully, and actually enjoying the opportunity.

You must own the interview, offering concrete, specific examples of how you possess qualities needed for the job. Since between 65 and 70 percent of our real communication is image and how we present ourselves, our body language is the strongest part of our message, as interviewers remember what they see (we all do). Present the picture of an energetic, friendly, articulate, dedicated, confident hard worker who loves meeting people, offering stories illustrating strengths they need, and you’re guaranteed to stand out.

Make it a conversation, not an interrogation. Interview (or in this case “inter-view”) literally means seeing between people, so it should feel like you’re speaking with a friend. Every interview is “the personality competition”—if you’re there, you’re probably qualified, and the person who is liked best is usually selected. This means projecting friendliness while detailing strengths, because if you present your attributes without smiling (which can happen when nervous), it’s easy to appear conceited (definitely the wrong impression).

For the complete behind-the-scenes story and all the details on this and other exciting competitive events from across America, as well as a wealth of advice to improve your chances of victory, be sure to Order Pageantry today.