If you’ve ever Googled:

“buzzwords principals are looking for in an interview…”

We need to talk.

Because what you think is helping you stand out…

Is actually causing you to blend in.

The Most Common Interview Phrases

You’ve probably said (or planned to say) things like:

• “I’m a lifelong learner”
• “I focus on building relationships”
• “I prepare students for career readiness”

And listen—these aren’t bad things.

But here’s the problem:

Everyone else is saying them too.

Why Buzzwords Don’t Work

When every candidate is using the same phrases…

They stop meaning anything.

Hiring committees can tell when:

• you’re trying to “check a box”
• you’re word-stuffing your answers
• you’re saying what you think they want to hear

And more importantly?

They can feel when it’s not genuine.

Because strong candidates don’t just say the right words.

They mean what they say.

What to Say Instead

Instead of focusing on sounding impressive…

Focus on being aligned.

Here’s how:

1. Get Clear on Your Core Values

What actually matters to you as a teacher?

Not what sounds good.

What’s true.

2. Apply to Districts That Share Those Values

This is where alignment comes in.

You’re not trying to fit everywhere.

You’re choosing where you naturally fit.

3. Show—Don’t Tell

Instead of saying:

“I build relationships with students…”

Show it.

Tell a story. Share a moment. Give a real example.

This is what makes you memorable.

Use REMI to Structure Your Answers

If you want a simple way to stand out in interviews, use this framework:

REMI

Restate the question
Example from your experience
Mission (connect it to the school/district values)
It Factor (what makes you different)

This is how you go from:

Generic answer…

To:

“We need this teacher on our team.”

The Identity Shift

You don’t chase buzzwords.

You know who you are.
You know what you stand for.

And you articulate your values with confidence.

You’re not trying to sound like everyone else.

You’re letting yourself stand out.

Take Action: Try This Today

Take one common interview question.

Instead of answering it the way you normally would…

Use REMI:

• Restate the question
• Share a specific example
• Connect it to the school’s mission
• Highlight your unique perspective

Practice saying it out loud.

You’ll feel the difference immediately.

Recap

• Common buzzwords don’t help you stand out
• Hiring teams can tell when answers aren’t genuine
• Alignment and authenticity matter more than “sounding right”
• Use REMI to structure strong, memorable answers
• Your voice—not buzzwords—is what sets you apart

Next Steps

If you’re ready to confidently answer interview questions and actually stand out:

• Grab the Teacher Interview Guide to know exactly what principals are looking for
• Use the Teacher Interview Bundle to stand out with your resume, cover letter, and responses
• Join Land Your Dream Job to walk step-by-step through the entire process with support

Because you don’t need better buzzwords.

You need better alignment.