What to bring to an interview | Expert Advice

What to bring to an interview?  Competition is also high among job applicants, and you are probably one of the many interviewed.  With this in mind, you want to leave a lasting impression that increases your chances of calling back for additional interviews or a job offer.

  To prepare for a job interview, it is important to first understand the interview process.  Initially, you might meet with a hiring manager or another HR officer.  Their job is to screen applicants and reduce the number of suitable candidates for the next level of interviews, which will likely involve management.

  Job interviews are nerve-wracking.  It’s one of the few times when high self-awareness isn’t normal – it’s encouraging and expected.  You are keenly aware of what you wear, what to say, how to shake hands with the interviewer, and how to answer this difficult question.  This awareness is how you show your interest in the role and how to present your best version.  But all of those considerations on your mind can be overwhelming – unless you take the appropriate steps to manage your stress and calm your thoughts.

  When you get into a job interview, you don’t want to get over it.  Preparedness leads to confidence, so knowing what to expect can help you meet expectations when the stakes are high.  It is natural to be nervous.  The prep is the antidote: Having the materials you need can help you get nerves, talk about your experience, and share your story with confidence.  But remember: The most important thing to do in a job interview does not fit in your backpack.

What should I bring to job interview?

  While most recruiters will inform you in advance of the documents you have to bring on the important day, having your own interview toolkit is always more convenient – and sometimes it can be a lifesaver!

  Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your own interview toolkit, but remember you can always add and remove items as you see fit!

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What to bring to an interview

1     Multiple hard copies of your CV

  It’s possible that the company you are applying to have already obtained a copy of your resume, and you may have already crossed over the document in a phone conversation with the hiring manager.  It’s still a good idea to carry copies of your resume printed on high-quality paper.

  There is a possibility that the interviewer may not have a printed copy of your resume, and if nothing else, well you expected.  A good rule of thumb to follow is to pack one CV for each person you expect to be interviewed with, plus three more resumes if others are participating in the interview.

2     Notebook and pen

  The notebook pen combo is a useful reference and tool item.  This is where you can keep any questions you developed, important facts and figures, or information that you provided during the interview.  Taking notes can help you keep track of complex questions.  It can help you remember the center’s most important features.  It also shows potential employers that you are organized and prepared.

3     List of references

  If all goes well, your interview could end with a conditional employment offer, so your references are essential for bringing in a job interview.  One of these conditions could be that all your references be checked out.  You want to make this part of the process as smooth and fast as possible, taking your references and getting ready to hand them over can speed things up.  Plus, you’ll get bonus points for your preparation.

4     Your portfolio

  If you are applying for any type of creative business, such as copywriting or commercial design, your portfolio is an important component to bring to a job interview.  For creative roles, you will likely need a collection of your prior work to show the interviewer (s).  Your past accomplishments always speak louder than your carefully measured words, and nothing beats bringing samples of your past work to a job interview.  If you have an actual wallet, bring it with you.  If not, have the URL on hand so that the interviewer can review your work during the meeting.

20  Questions

  Being ready for questions saves you embarrassment when asking “Is there anything you would like to ask us?”  Asking a question or two to potential employers is inevitable and it shows that you have thought about the position and future of the company.  The question should not be “How much is the wage?”  One of these is because it indicates that you are only interested in money.

  Judgments will be made for you based on what you question.  Instead, think of smart questions that show how you can fit in with the job and support the company and what the company is doing to expand and develop over the coming years.

21  Identification

  This may sound like a no-brainer, but it’s still worth a mention, says Patton.  You may need to present a photo ID to enter the building, so check with your employer in advance to find out about the building’s security requirements.  The security guard may ask you which company you are visiting, the name of the person you meet and the floor they are on.  Confirm all of this information when setting up your interview, so you don’t get lost in the hallway before your big meeting.

22  A bag, bag, or purse neatly contains all of your items

  Once you have the things that you need to bring to the interview, you must decide how to organize and implement them.  The goal is to look cohesive and burden-free.  Choose a handbag, briefcase, messenger bag, or wallet that can hold everything and look professional.  Backpacks are suitable for some places but not for others.  Use the best judgment based on the company’s research you’ve conducted and what you know about their culture.

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