What do you cover in your coaching sessions?
We begin by discussing the pageant in which you will be competing and your current pageant interview skill level. Then, we jump right in building your new pageant interview skills! In our appointments we’ll cover topics such as pageant forms, interview content, standard pageant questions, current events (if applicable), how to handle “trick” questions, answering questions on controversial topics, public speaking skills needed to deliver a strong interview, and on-stage interview skills.

Do you accept contestants who have never competed before?
Yes, I work with beginning, intermediate, and advanced interview students. Some of my beginning students have gone on to win the title in their very first pageant, such as Chelsea Degueyter, Miss Houston Teen USA 2007.

Do you offer phone coaching?
Yes, based on your individual coaching needs and schedule, 30-minute and 1-hour in-person and phone coaching appointments are available. To schedule yours now, just click here.

Does phone coaching really work?
Yes, it really does. I have students all across the country that have competed in the major pageant systems. I have winners that have used phone coaching exclusively and I have never met them in person! Why does phone coaching work? Because we cover all the important topics: handling typical pageant questions, dealing with difficult or “trick” questions, platform development, vocal variety, pace, etc. Then I give you “homework” assignments to work on by yourself or with family and friends to develop body language skills. We also e-mail photos of interview outfits back and forth, discuss hair and make-up options, and any other questions you might have to make sure you’re absolutely ready for your interview!

How does long distance or phone coaching work?
After you contact us to schedule a 30-minute or 1-hour phone coaching session, we’ll get you set up on the calendar. Then you e-mail or fax me any pageant forms or contestant bio’s that you have relating to your pageant. Then on the scheduled date and time, I will call you at the phone number you’ve provided and we’ll get started! I’ll be evaluating your interview skills over the phone and recommending “homework” assignments to practice on your own at home. While contestants are sometimes skeptical, they’re always surprised by how much they can learn in a phone coaching session!

Which pageants do your pageant students usually enter?
The skills and techniques that I teach are universal and can be used for a broad range of pageants. The key is to adjust the content and delivery according to the emphasis and interview style of your particular pageant. Here’s a quick list of the pageant systems my students have entered or won at the local, state, and national levels:

Miss USA
Miss Teen USA
Miss America
Miss America’s Outstanding Teen
Miss USA World
Miss World
Mrs. America
Mrs./Miss/Teen International
Mrs./Ms./Miss/Teen Galaxy
Mrs. United States
America’s National Teenager
American Queen
National American Miss
American Coed
Miss Teen America
United Nations
America’s Touch of Class
Miss Plus America
Local pageants and local festival competitions

Why is it important to work with a coach who is experienced with a wide variety of pageant systems?
Because each pageant system has their unique “personality” and style of interview. Some interviews are strictly based on the contestant bio, while others include issues such as current events and personal platform. It’s best to work with a coach who can teach you how to work within different pageant systems, with different judging criteria, so that your interview can really shine!

What are your fees?
There are several different options for you to choose from based on your particular situation. To see a list of coaching options, click here for a complete list of services and fees.

Can you help me pick out my interview suit?
Yes, I frequently give suggestions and guidance to current students who need a little help picking out their interview suit. In-person students bring their prospective interview suit and accessories to their appointments, while phone coaching students e-mail me photos. You can also check out my article on how to pick out the perfect interview suit in the Articles/Tips section of my website. Click here to go straight to the article!

Do you help contestants prepare their pageant forms?
Yes, I assist contestants with the content of any forms that will be used by the judges during pageant competition. I strongly believe that the contestant bio, and any other form seen by the judges, is the foundation for your pageant interview. If you don’t have solid, well-prepared forms that elicit good questions for you to answer, you just can’t have a fabulous pageant interview!

Still have questions? Email Valerie at Info@PageantInterviewCoach.com!