What to Bring to a Job Interview: Tips and Tricks

Are you wondering what to bring to a job interview? Aside from copies of your resume, there are essential items you’ll want to take to the meeting.

Coming to the interview ready includes knowing what you bring and being prepared mentally. Even though you don’t want to come with too much, there are certain essentials.

Be Organized

No interviewer will want to wait for you to rummage through your professional-looking bag (briefcase) to find the materials you’re looking for, so organizing and only bringing pertinent items is essential. To avoid sifting through your bag, put your items in a small folder that is easily accessible.

Items to Take to the Interview

1. Directions:

It is essential that you arrive at your interview on time or, better yet, early. So make sure you know where you’re going. If you haven’t been to the company address, use GPS or detailed directions to help you get there successfully. And remember to leave yourself plenty of time. You don’t want the added stress of running against the clock—or to commit the terrible mistake of showing up late.

2. Copies of Your Resume:

Bring several printed copies of your resume to give to the individuals on the interviewing panel. Use one for your reference during the interview process. If you aren’t sure how many interviewers will be in the room with you, bring extras, just in case.

3. Copies of Letters of Recommendation and Reference Sheet

Bring printed copies of all of your recommendation letters from relevant sources. Print and bring your reference sheet to hand to your interviewers. Ensure that the references you select can speak to the job’s required skills and provide a positive reference.

4. Work Portfolio

It’s always recommended to come to an interview with samples of your past work to speak to your abilities as a professional in your field. A portfolio is a superb way to organize all the items you need to bring in a neat and stylized package. Include copies of your licenses, courses, certifications, and education.

5. Pen and Notepad

It’s essential to come prepared with your materials to complete any necessary paperwork. Note the name of your interviewer, times for future interviews, and other pertinent information.

6. List of Questions to Ask the Interviewers

At the end of the interview, you will be allowed to ask the interview panel some questions. It may catch you off guard without preparing some possible questions. Know what you want to ask beforehand, and you can add any additional questions that may arise during the interview.

7. Other Materials Your Interviewer May Have Specified

On the flip side, there are things you should never bring to a job interview.

8. Miscellaneous Items

Bring a small water bottle just in case your throat gets dry. Take your business cards, if you have any, plus a legal picture identification.

Items you will Never Want to be Caught with at the Interview

1. Friends, Family Members, or Anyone Else

Never attend a job interview with someone else. This never makes a favourable impression in an interview, but surprisingly happens. Secure the position on your merit, not with a friend or family member’s help.

2. Gum, Candy, or Food

Eat before your interview or after it’s over. Never go into your interview with food in hand. Never chew gum. It looks unprofessional and makes it harder to understand you when you speak.

3. Coffee, Pop, or Another Type of Beverage

The same rule holds for drinks as well. Leave everything until after your interview is over.

4. Visible Tattoos or Piercings

If you have piercings or tattoos, the general rule is to cover them up for your interview. You don’t want to distract the interviewer from your skills and capabilities.

5. Baseball Hat

Do your hair correctly and leave the hats at home. You should be wearing professional attire only for your job interview.

Need additional help? Reach out to Candace to learn more!