At Miss GSL Teen, one of our core missions is to equip our titleholders with the skills they need to excel in every aspect of life. A significant part of this preparation is our weekly interview practice, designed to prepare them for the state competition at Miss Utah’s Teen while helping them develop the confidence to speak and connect with people from all walks of life.
Public speaking and interviews can be daunting for teens, especially when it comes to tackling diverse topics or addressing unfamiliar audiences. Our program is rooted in the belief that every young woman has the potential to communicate with poise, authenticity, and impact. Through consistent practice, feedback, and support, our titleholders gain the tools to succeed not only in competitions but also in real-life interactions.
Here are five tips we emphasize during our interview practices that can help any teen overcome social anxiety and build meaningful connections:
An interview isn’t just about answering questions—it’s about creating a genuine connection. When our titleholders learn to listen, engage, and share authentically, they discover the power of their voice to inspire and build relationships.
Jessica Adams, Miss GSL Executive Director
1. Practice Active Listening
A great conversation starts with listening. Encourage teens to focus fully on what the interviewer or conversational partner is saying. By listening carefully, they can respond thoughtfully and engage in a meaningful dialogue rather than simply reciting rehearsed answers. This skill fosters genuine connections and shows respect for the person they are speaking with.
2. Prepare, Dont Memorize
While preparation is crucial, we emphasize the importance of flexibility. Instead of memorizing specific answers, teens learn to organize their thoughts around key themes or messages they want to convey. This approach allows for authenticity and adaptability, ensuring they feel comfortable discussing a range of topics.
3. Focus on Body Language
Non-verbal communication plays a huge role in interviews and public speaking. Maintaining good posture, making eye contact, and offering a warm smile can convey confidence and approachability, even if nerves are present. These small adjustments can make a big difference in how others perceive their presence.
4. Embrace Pausing
It’s natural to feel the need to fill silences, but we teach our titleholders that it’s okay to pause and gather their thoughts. A well-placed pause shows composure and allows for clearer, more impactful responses. This practice also helps calm nerves and ensures they communicate their ideas effectively.
5. Develop a Service-Oriented Mindset
Teens often feel pressure to “impress” during interviews, but we remind our titleholders to focus on how they can serve and connect with others. Approaching interactions with the intention of sharing their values, experiences, and ideas for the benefit of others shifts the focus away from nerves and onto the positive impact they can make.
At Miss GSL Teen, interview practice goes beyond preparing for state competition—it’s about fostering confidence that extends into every corner of life. Whether our titleholders are speaking with judges, volunteering in their community, or advocating for a cause they believe in, these skills empower them to communicate with clarity, authenticity, and purpose.
Weekly practice, constructive feedback, and encouragement from our directors create a supportive environment where teens can refine their abilities and grow into confident, compassionate leaders. With time, they learn that their voice matters and that they have the power to inspire and connect with people in meaningful ways.
If you’re a teen looking to build confidence in interviews or public speaking, try incorporating these tips into your daily interactions. Remember, with preparation, practice, and the right mindset, you can overcome social anxiety and create meaningful connections with those around you.
