Your interview performance is often decided before the first question—by how you set yourself up in the final minutes. Here’s a simple 10-minute pre-interview routine you can use for virtual or phone interviews to feel calmer, sound sharper, and make a stronger first impression.

0–2 Minutes: Reset your brain (and breathing)

When nerves spike, your breathing gets shallow, which can make your voice sound strained or rushed.

• Try box breathing: inhale 4 seconds → hold 4 → exhale 4 → hold 4 (repeat 3–4 cycles)
• Drop your shoulders and unclench your jaw
• Remind yourself: “My goal is clarity, not perfection.”

2–5 Minutes: Lock in your “story anchors”

Most interviews revolve around a few recurring themes. Instead of memorizing full scripts, prep anchors—short points you can expand naturally.

Write down (or keep on a sticky note) 3 quick anchors:

• Why this role / company (1–2 lines)
• Your top 2 strengths (with proof): “I’m strong in X, shown by Y result.”
• One flexible STAR story you can adapt to multiple questions (conflict, challenge, leadership, mistake)

Tip: If you can’t say your anchors in 20–30 seconds, they’re too long.

5–7 Minutes: “Tech + environment” micro-check (virtual)

Small friction moments can throw you off. Do a fast scan to protect your momentum.

• Camera at eye level; look at the lens when answering
• Lighting facing you (window/light in front, not behind)
• Audio check: confirm mic input; silence notifications
• Background: tidy or use a clean, non-distracting blur
• Keep a glass of water nearby (quiet bottle, not crinkly)

7–9 Minutes: Prime your voice (phone or virtual)

Your first 30 seconds matter—especially on the phone where energy is conveyed through tone.

• Read 2–3 sentences out loud (any text) to warm up your voice
• Practice a confident greeting: “Hi [Name], great to meet you—thanks for the time today.”
• Smile briefly before you speak; it often lifts your tone

9–10 Minutes: Prepare 2 smart questions to ask

Strong questions signal maturity and genuine interest. Pick two that fit most roles:

• “What does success look like in the first 60–90 days?”
• “What are the biggest challenges the team is solving right now?”
• “How do you measure performance and growth in this role?”

Bonus: A quick confidence reframe

If your mind says “I hope they like me,” try: “Let’s see if this is a fit for both sides.” It reduces pressure and helps you show up more thoughtfully.

What’s one pre-interview habit you swear by (or one you want to try next time)?