Most candidates prepare for hours… then jump into the interview cold. A quick, repeatable warm-up can make you sound sharper, calmer, and more confident—especially in virtual interviews, where energy can feel muted.
Why a warm-up works
Interviews are a performance moment: your brain needs a short ramp-up to access stories, speak clearly, and manage nerves. A warm-up helps you:
- Reduce “first question” jitters
- Recall examples faster (no awkward pauses)
- Project steady confidence from minute one
The 10-minute warm-up (use right before you join)
1) 60 seconds: posture + breath reset
- Sit/stand tall, shoulders relaxed
- Inhale for 4, exhale for 6 (repeat 5 times)
- Aim for a slower speaking pace than you think you need
2) 3 minutes: your top 3 proof points
Write (or glance at) three results you want them to remember. Keep each to one line:
- Outcome (what improved)
- Metric (how much)
- Skill (what you used)
Example:
- Reduced onboarding time 30% by rebuilding SOPs and training plan (process design)
3) 4 minutes: STAR speed-round (out loud)
Pick two likely questions and answer each in 45–60 seconds using STAR:
- Situation/Task: 1–2 sentences
- Action: 2–3 sentences (what you did)
- Result: 1 sentence with metrics or impact
Pro tip: If you tend to ramble, set a timer and practice landing the result.
4) 2 minutes: first-impression check (camera + environment)
- Camera at eye level; look into the lens when you make key points
- Soft front lighting (window or lamp), clean background
- Notes: keep 3 bullets visible (not full scripts)
- Micro-test: record 10 seconds—do you sound energized and clear?
Common mistakes this avoids
- Over-explaining your background instead of leading with impact
- Forgetting metrics under pressure
- Starting too fast, too quiet, or with low energy on video
Make it your routine
Use the same warm-up every time. Consistency builds confidence—and confidence improves clarity.
Your turn: If you had only 10 minutes before an interview, what would you do to feel ready and confident?