Interviews are crucial steps in the job search process that require careful preparation. In addition to researching the company culture, reviewing the job description, and practicing common interview questions, it’s essential to bring specific items with you to the job interview to demonstrate that you are fully prepared. Here is our list of what to take to a job interview to help you make a great impression and increase your chances of getting hired.
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Copies of Your Resume
Bringing multiple copies of your resume and even your cover letter to the job interview is a must. Even if you have already submitted your resume online, hiring managers may not have a printed copy on hand. Having a few copies ready is an easy way to show that you are prepared and organized. It also allows you to reference your own resume during the interview, which can help you provide specific examples from your past work experience that align with the job requirements.
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Reference List
A reference list is another item to bring to an interview. Prepare a list of professional references, including their names, titles, contact information, and their relationship to you. This can include former supervisors, colleagues, or other professional contacts who can speak to your skills and qualifications. Make sure to have this list printed out and ready to provide upon request during the interview. This shows that you have taken the initiative to prepare a network of supporters who can vouch for your abilities.
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Supporting Documents
Depending on the job you are applying for, you may need to bring additional documents to the job interview. For example, if you are interviewing to a job in a creative industry like graphic design, it will be necessary for you to bring a printed copy of your creative portfolio. Bringing these documents shows that you are thorough and have all the necessary documentation to support your claims of experience and expertise.
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Notepad and Pen
Bringing a notepad and pen to the job interview is a simple yet effective way to demonstrate your professionalism and preparedness. Use it to take notes during the interview, jot down any of the interviewer’s questions or talking points you want to remember, and write down the names of the interviewers or any other important details. Taking notes can show that you are actively listening and engaged in the conversation, and also allows you to refer back to your notes when it is your turn to ask questions or following up after the interview.
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Research
It is important to always research the company before the interview and come prepared to talk about their company culture, business, and plans for the future. This shows hiring managers that you are eager to be part of their organization. If necessary bring research material like printouts of recent news articles, company brochures, or any other relevant information that you have gathered during your job search. Use this material to reference during the interview when discussing why you are interested in the company and how you can contribute to its success.
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Interview Questions
There is nothing more awkward than not having any questions for your interviewer at the end of the interview. Preparing intelligent questions about the job and the company will not only help you get a better idea of the role’s daily routine, but it will show just how interested you are in the position. Make sure to come to the interview with prepared questions and to write down any other questions that might come up during the interview, in order to impress the interviewer when it is your time to ask questions.
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Breath Strips
While it’s important to focus on your qualifications and responses during the interview, bad breath can be distracting and leave a negative impression. Breath strips, breath mints, or gum are items you can bring to an interview to help you freshen up and maintain good oral hygiene. However, it’s important to use them discreetly and not during the actual interview. To be on the safe side, dispose of them before entering the interview room or even the building.
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Emergency Items
It’s always a good idea to be prepared for unexpected situations during an interview. Things like a stain stick to quickly remove any accidental stains on your clothes, a phone battery bank, or basic first aid supplies like band-aids and pain relievers are items you might want to bring to an interview in case of emergency. You definitely don’t want to show up with a coffee stain, feeling under the weather, or late because your phone turned off in your way to the interview.
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Directions and Phone Numbers
Whether you are going for an in-person interview or a virtual interview, it’s crucial to have the company’s address and contact information readily available. If you are attending an in-person interview, make sure to have the correct directions, know the exact location of the interview venue, and arrive early. Use the GPS system in your phone to calculate the best route and how long it will take you to arrive to the interview, so you can be prepared ahead of time.
If you are having a virtual interview, make sure to have the correct URL or login details for the virtual platform and test your equipment ahead of time. Writing easily accessible notes with this information will help you be on time for the interview and give a good first impression.
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Positive Attitude and Confidence
While not a physical item, your attitude plays a significant role in the interview process. Always be enthusiastic, and genuinely interested in the company and the position. Show confidence through your body language by maintaining eye contact, sitting up straight, and smiling. These non-verbal cues can convey your interest and professionalism to the hiring manager.
A job interview is a critical opportunity to showcase your skills, qualifications, and fit for the company. Remember to bring multiple copies of your resume, a reference list, any other necessary documents, a notepad and pen, research material, intelligent question, breath strips, emergency items, directions and contact information, and most importantly, a positive attitude and confident body language. Being well-prepared and organized can help you feel confident and make a memorable impression on the hiring manager.
Bonus Tip: After the Interview
Once the job interview is over, it’s essential to follow up with a thank-you note or email to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position. You can also use this opportunity to address any points you may have missed during the interview or provide additional information that could strengthen your candidacy. Following up shows that you are proactive and genuinely interested in the position.
While it’s important to come to job interviews with the right documents and items, it’s equally crucial to demonstrate your genuine interest, professionalism, and preparedness throughout the interview process. By bringing the right items and presenting yourself in the best possible light, you can increase your chances of success and stand out among other candidates. Remember to always be well-prepared, confident, and show the right attitude to make a memorable impression on the hiring manager. We hope these job interview tips help you bring your best foot forward!
Written by
Jose Caceres
Marketing Manager
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