If you’ve ever auditioned for a musical, danced in front of judges, or performed for a live audience, you’ve already practiced the exact skills that help you nail a job interview. Surprise! It turns out everything we teach our performers—confidence, poise, storytelling, connection—is exactly what hiring managers are looking for too.

In this week’s podcast episode, I’m sharing five tips I’ve taught over and over to my theater students that will completely change the way you approach interviews, especially if you’re nervous or feel underqualified.

Here’s the thing: you don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be prepared.

Tip #1: Show your personality
When someone interviews you, they’re trying to picture working with you. Not just whether you can do the tasks, but whether you’ll show up with a great attitude. So yes, check off the boxes… but then bring your real personality to the room. That’s who they’re hiring.

Tip #2: Exude confidence (even when you’re nervous)
Confidence doesn’t mean being loud or extroverted — it means grounded energy, steady body language, and believing you belong. If you don’t feel confident, act confident. You’re not faking it — you’re showing them the version of you that thrives once the nerves pass.

Tip #3: Dress for success (and comfort!)
Your outfit should fit the job and fit you. No tugging, pulling, or constant adjusting. Try it on in advance. Practice moving in it. For auditions, I always wore a dress with shorts underneath because I knew they might ask for a kick or leap. The same goes for job interviews: be prepared for anything.

Tip #4: Warm up your body and voice
Dancers and actors warm up before every performance. Why wouldn’t you warm up before something as important as an interview? Do a 5-minute stretch, vocal warm-up, or even just a walk around the block. Your voice, body, and nerves will thank you.

Tip #5: Do the prep work
Please don’t walk into an interview without knowing who you’re meeting or what the company does. Look up their values, their mission, and recent work. Know enough to ask thoughtful questions — not the kind you could answer by reading the homepage.