Not all pageant systems release their scores or make the judges’ comments available to the contestants. Today I’ll share judging insights from my years of experience as a judge.
When I am judging hundreds of contestants at a pageant, my scoring decision is made within seconds of the contestant taking the stage, or starting the interview. My score is based on the contestant’s performance right then and now. I don’t compare it to her previous areas of competition. If there is time, I may make a quick comment on my score sheet about the contestant, but most of the time there simply isn’t enough time to do this and I have to trust my gut feeling.
Because time is so short, most judges’ comments will be short and to the point. For example, common comments may be nice smile, great dress, or very confident. Most judges will comment on the positive things to build up the girl’s self esteem, and honestly it’s faster to write these types of comments. That’s why you will see many “feel good” comments on your sheets. It’s a time issue. However, as a contestant, this leaves you confused as to what to work on to improve your scores. Watching video of the top 5 place winners may reveal what you can do to improve. Not following the guidelines regarding age appropriate hair, makeup, and clothing choices; rambling when speaking; and walking too fast or too slow are common areas where deductions are made.
Usually, the final ballot is cast when you’re in your evening gown answering an onstage question. Your walk, facial expression, or overall appearance will move the score either up or down. That’s why it is important to practice your walk, speaking skills, and stage presence months before the pageant. Your muscle memory will carry you through when the adrenaline rush and nerves kick in onstage. How you handle the pressure in those final moments will determine who wears the crown. The key to controlling your nerves is having a strong healthy mindset- that can’t be learned overnight.
Judges don’t keep a running tally in their heads for each contestant. The competition happens too fast to do that. The contestant is scored based on her performance in the moment. The judge quickly enters the score and clears their mind for the next contestant. Judges have to do that in order to remain fresh and impartial so every girl gets the same attention and opportunity. Judges don’t keep the score sheets or materials after the pageant so trying to contact them after the pageant for feedback isn’t productive.
Ladies, in the final moments, you need to take a deep breath and trust your preparation. Stop over analyzing things, putting unnecessary pressure on yourself, and copying what you think is the winning walk or talk. The reason it worked for that girl is because it was a natural part of HER. You have to focus on you and be the best version of yourself.
Stop comparing yourself to other people. Take the time to develop youself and keep a healthy attitude about competition. There is an “inner calm” about people who possess true confidence; and true confidence is revealed when people are under pressure. You will remain calm when “you know that you know”, not in an arrogant sort of way; but a peaceful calm of knowing who you are and being consistent and true to yourself throughout the entire pageant. Learning how to handle both inner and external pressures is a life skill that will not only help you in pageants; but in your life as well.