Most candidates know to prepare for a job interview, in order to make the best impression possible. However, as interview day approaches, they tend to assume that going to the interview wearing proper attire and a positive attitude is enough.
Not so fast!
Being ready to answer questions that come your way and connecting with the interviewer(s) are the keys to getting the job offer. Thus, setting the right conditions to attain that goal is key as well.
Deciding what to bring along with you for a job interview can help create those winning conditions. Below are some items you should consider bringing to the job interview in order to put all the odds on your side.
1. Copies of your resume
It’s a good idea to bring at least two copies of your resume with you in case the interviewer misplaced theirs, or should they refer to a specific point you made in your resume. As for any meetings, having the key documents with you shows that you’re well prepared.
2. Key information about the position and interviewer(s)
You should always bring the address of where the interview will take place, as well as the name and contact information of someone you’re interviewing with, in case of an emergency. This person would typically be the one who contacted you to schedule the interview.
Beyond this, if you’ve done your research and know who will be interviewing you, having their name, position title and any other relevant information can come in handy.
If you responded to a job posting, bring a copy of it along, just in case.
3. A pen and a notepad
You never really know what to expect at a job interview. Thus, having a pen and paper is a good idea in case you need to jot down some notes or put your thoughts together before answering the question.
It happens that interviewers ask compound questions. Having a notepad ready allows you to break down the key parts of the question, so you can address them all, instead of wasting mental energy trying to remember, or asking the interviewer to repeat (which, by the way, is still better than winging it).
4. List of questions
The job interview is as much about you choosing them as them choosing you. So, prepare a list of questions to ask your interviewer(s) in order to assess whether there is a fit, on your end.
Having those questions ready means that you’re not looking for any job, but the right one. This only goes to show your interest in the position.
5. Breath mints
You want to appear confident at the job interview. But in order to appear confident, you need to feel good and you won’t if you know you have bad breath.
So always bring breath mints. Avoid chewing gum, as it doesn’t look professional and you might be stuck looking for a garbage can to throw it out.
6. Portfolio and work samples
Depending on your field or profession, you may want to bring your portfolio or samples of your work.
7. References
Some people recommend that you bring a list of references with you. However, it may not be the best practice.
Instead, if the interview goes well and you are asked to provide references, you can do so at the same time as you send your thank you email. This will give you the time to reflect and choose who to give as a reference.
Know what to take to a job interview?
The above is just a basic list of things for you to consider. Use your discretion, but regardless of what you decide, make sure to only bring what is necessary, so as not to look clumsy.
About the author: John Sylo is a co-editor for WorkBloom, an online resource for job seekers worldwide.
