Introduction
If you make it to the interview step, you’ve done an excellent job of putting together your resume.
The interview needs the same type of consideration, to ensure you are the one the position is offered to. After all, this is your opportunity to show the employer why you are the best choice.
Remember the times when you were a student preparing yourself for the academic exams. You thought of any tricky situation that might cause you to arrive unprepared and therefore work accordingly.
Getting Ready
The job interview is very similar to an exam. You’d want to be ready down to details.
Needless to say, that forecasting is important in order to take the necessary steps for tackling any unthinkable situation.
What you should bring to an interview is one of the last questions you may ask yourself when you make the last preparations.
This article serves as a guide for – what to bring and what not bring to your job interview.
List of 10 Things to Bring to an Interview
Here is list of suggested things to bring to an interview –
What to Bring to a Job Interview
1. Completed Job Application – Make sure you arrive at your interview with a completed job application in hand.
2. Resume (2 Copies) – Even if you have sent your resume in beforehand, always have a copy handy to refer to during the interview.
3. References (2 Copies) – Have adequate copies of your references on hand, and look for an opportunity to discuss them with the interviewer or leave your reference letters with them at the end of the interview.
4. Pertinent Certification, Licenses, and Course Completions – If there are specific requirements for the job, bring along proof that you have the required certification, licenses, and course completions. If there is international travel involved, bring your passport and immunization records.
5. Company Introduction Package – Bring along any information that the company has sent you, such as an intro package, application, forms, or other relevant information.
6. Other Copies of Documents – Bring along any relevant academic certificates, professional courses’ certificates, driving license, and social security card.
7. Previous Works (Samples) – If you have good samples of your work, it can be a good idea to present these to support what you are telling the interviewer.
8. Performance/Appraisal Reviews – If you have received documented positive feedback, find the appropriate time to deliver these documents to the interviewer.
9. Business Card – Exchange business cards with the interviewer for easy contact information.
10. Appearance – Make sure your appearance is neat and professional by bringing:
- Makeup (for women)
- Comb/Brush (for men & women)
- Extra Tie or extra Shirt
- Breath Mints
Other Accessories – Essential Items to Bring
Some other important needs include:
- A pen and notepad: In case you need to write down information delivered to you during or after the job interview.
- Bottle of water: Drinking fresh water will reduce your anxiety.
- Driving directions: Bring these along and don’t take the risk of getting lost.
- Your cell phone: In case you need to contact the company, or the interviewer needs to contact you.
- Company contacts details: Have these handy for easy access.
- Cash or Credit Card: You may need to pay for parking.
Things You Should Never Bring
Avoid bringing the following items as they may leave a negative impression:
- Backpack or fanny pack
- Sunglasses on top of your head
- Headphones around your neck
- Additional jewelry
- Heavy makeup
- Casual clothing
- Inappropriate hosiery
- Extra bags such as shopping bags
- Inappropriate hair accessories
- Sneakers
- Friends, spouses, or children
Conclusion
Your first impression is important, so make sure to avoid unnecessary items and arrive fully prepared for your job interview.
Bring all necessary documents, have a professional appearance, and avoid bringing items that may leave a negative impression.
By doing so, you increase your chances of impressing the interviewer and landing the job.