Interviews aren’t won only by what you say—they’re often decided by how quickly you settle in, project confidence, and communicate clearly. Here’s a simple 10-minute routine you can run before any interview (virtual, phone, or in-person) to feel more prepared and come across stronger from the very first question.

1) Minute 1–2: Reset your “interview energy”

A rushed brain sounds rushed. Do a quick reset:

• Take 5 slow breaths (in 4 counts, out 6 counts)
• Sit or stand tall, shoulders relaxed
• Say your name + role you’re targeting out loud (it cues “professional mode”)

Why it helps: it lowers stress signals that can show up as fast talking, filler words, or a shaky voice.

2) Minute 3–5: Rehearse your opening in one clean take

Your first answer sets the tone. Practice a 30–45 second version of:

• “Tell me about yourself”
• “Why this role/company?”

Use this structure:

• Present: what you do now / your strengths
• Past: one relevant achievement
• Future: why you’re excited about this role

Tip: record one take on your phone and listen once. You’ll catch pacing and clarity instantly.

3) Minute 6–7: Lock in 2–3 proof points (STAR mini-stories)

Pick three mini-stories you can adapt to many questions:

• A challenge you solved
• A time you influenced/stakeholder-managed
• A measurable win (time saved, revenue, quality, customer impact)

Write each as a one-line STAR outline:

• S/T: context + goal
• A: what you did
• R: measurable result

This prevents rambling and makes your answers sound concrete.

4) Minute 8–9: Prepare two smart questions to ask

Strong candidates ask strong questions. Choose two:

• Role clarity: “What does success look like in the first 60–90 days?”
• Team/process: “How does the team prioritize work and make decisions?”
• Growth: “What skills separate a good performer from a top performer here?”

Bonus: tailor one question to something you saw in the job description or on the company site.

5) Minute 10: Virtual/phone quick-check (first impression insurance)

If it’s virtual or phone:

• Camera at eye level, face well-lit
• Mic check + silence notifications
• Keep a notepad with 3 bullet reminders (don’t script full answers)

Quick self-score (30 seconds)

Before you join, rate yourself 1–5 on:

• Energy
• Clarity
• Calm If any score is under 3, repeat the breathing step and re-say your opening once.

Try it once, then tweak it

The goal isn’t perfection—it’s consistency. A repeatable routine reduces anxiety and makes your delivery sharper every time.

What’s one pre-interview habit you swear by—or one thing that always throws you off right before you start?