How to Show Up and Stand Out in an Interview

How to Show Up and Stand Out in an Interview

A student asked me for advice for an assistant principal interview. I rattled off some things, and then I had ChatGPT fact-check them, and it turned into this blog post.

Interviews are more than just a series of questions—they’re a chance to show who you are, how you think, and why you're a great fit for a leadership role in a school. Here’s a research-supported guide that blends practical advice with professionalism.

Be Authentic

People can spot inauthenticity quickly. Trying to be someone you're not is hard to maintain—especially under pressure. Research shows that authenticity in high-stress interviews improves how candidates are perceived (Krumhuber et al., 2022). Be yourself. Be prepared. That’s more than enough.

Make It a Conversation

The strongest interviews feel like a dialogue, not an interrogation. When candidates ask thoughtful questions and stay conversational, it builds rapport and demonstrates interest. SHRM (2021) notes that hiring panels consistently rank these candidates higher.

Be Specific About Why You Want THIS Job

Avoid generalities like “I’m ready for a change” or “I want a promotion.” Talk about why you want this job in this school with these people. Research on person-organization fit shows that alignment with values and mission significantly increases hiring likelihood (Kristof-Brown et al., 2005).

Bring Work Products and Materials

Come with a clean, professional copy of your resume, letter of intent, and any relevant work samples. A 2023 LinkedIn survey found that 74% of hiring managers value candidates who bring a portfolio or artifacts to support their answers.

Have a Laptop with You

You may be asked to show something electronically—lesson plans, data reports, or digital tools. Being able to pull something up shows you're prepared and tech-capable.

Take Notes

Even if it’s just jotting down a few words, taking notes signals engagement and gives you a moment to think before responding. According to Forbes (2021), it also makes you appear focused and professional.

Dress the Part

Your clothing sends a message before you speak. Professional dress still impacts perceived competence and leadership. For men, a jacket tends to increase perceived authority. For women, conservative neckline choices receive more serious consideration—largely due to unconscious bias (Psychology Today, 2022; Bègue et al., 2019). This isn’t about style policing—it’s about managing perception.

Carry Something Grounding

I always bring a bright-orange Yeti to high-stakes meetings. It helps keep me calm. Research supports the idea that small comfort objects can lower anxiety and improve focus (Clinical Psychological Science, 2018).

Scan the Room When You Talk

Use the “thirds rule”: spend part of your time making eye contact with the center, part with the left, and part with the right side of the panel. This creates a sense of inclusion and presence (Toastmasters International).

It’s Okay Not to Know

If you don’t have a perfect answer, say so. Ask a clarifying question, take a breath, and gather your thoughts. Hiring managers respect honesty and thoughtfulness over a shaky bluff.

What Not to Do

  • Don’t lie.
  • Don’t exaggerate.
  • Don’t make things up.

Honesty and humility remain two of the top-rated traits hiring committees look for in leadership roles (Indeed Hiring Lab, 2022).

Final Word

Be humble. Be confident. Be prepared.
But most of all—be yourself.

References