What to Bring to a Job Interview

What to Bring to a Job Interview

When preparing for job interviews, some people think it is just about the questions and answers from the interviewers. That’s far from it, preparing for job interviews goes beyond just rehearsing the answers to common questions that will be asked.

One key aspect of preparing for job interviews most people neglect is your ability to bring everything that will make you leave a great impression at the interviews. When going for an interview, you should go with the right items that are definitely going to show that you are very confident of getting the job.

These items most times will help you to stand out from others who are vying for the same job with you. In this article we’ll try to give you a clear breakdown of things you should bring to a job interview, we’ll make you understand why these items are important.

1. Essential Documents

a) Copies of Your Resume

Even when you might have already submitted your resume online, that shouldn’t stop you from bringing multiple printed copies, it should be at least 3 to 5 in number, in most situations, some of they interviewers may not have seen the copies of your resume, but if you decide to hand them a very clean and professional copy of your resume, it would show that you really came prepared for the job, Just make sure that your resume is printed on very high quality paper, this would make it look really professionals.

b) Cover Letter (Optional)

If you did submit a cover letter with your application, you should also bring a printed copy of it. Although it may not always be necessary, it’s not such a bad idea to have one with you just in case the interviewer wants to refer to it.

c) List of References

Most employers always ask for references on the spot during interviews, you should be able to bring a separate list that contains about 3 to 5 professional references, these references should come with email addresses, their phone numbers, their job titles as well as their names. also make sure these references are already aware that you are listing them as references, you should do it with their consent.

d) Portfolio or Work Samples

If you are applying for creative jobs like writing, graphic design, photography or you are going for more technical roles like software development, Engineering etc.

You should go with a portfolio of your work which can show your skills, if your work happens to be digital, you can come with a phone, laptop or tablet to show it, however you should also have a few printed or typed samples just in case.

e) Identification

Most companies looking to hire staff often need I’D either for security or administrative purposes, you should always go with a government issued ID, it could be your passport or Driver’s license, this can act as an advantage in some certain situations.

2. Necessary Stationery

a) Notebook and Pen

If you are taking notes during interviews, it’s a sign of engagement and it is going to help you to remember some key details.

Try and write down some important details about the company you are getting the interview, also jot down any questions you might want to ask as regards to the particular role you are applying for. you can use a professional looking notebook, avoid the temptation of using loose sheets of paper.

b) A List of Questions for the Interviewer

Normally you are always at the receiving end of questions during interviews, however you can make things more interesting by preparing at least 3 to 5 Thoughtful questions you can ask at the end of the interview, it will show that you are very much interested in the company as well as the role you are applying for. for example, you might ask questions like

What are the biggest challenges someone in this role might face?

Can you describe the company culture?

What do you enjoy most about working here?

3. Personal Items for Comfort and Preparednes

a) A Professional Bag or Folder

You can always carry all your documents in a very sleek folder or Professional bag. This will help to keep everything well organized and presentable too, you should always avoid backpacks, they are not really classy and attractive for interviews.

b) Breath Mints or Chewing Gum

You’ll need a fresh breath in order to boost your confidence level especially if your interview is going to be held after lunch, however don’t forget to spit out the gums just before the interview starts.

c) Water Bottle

You need to stay hydrated during the course of your interview, however you shouldn’t bring a big bottle that might cause distractions, just find something portable and take it to your interviews.

d) Tissues or Handkerchief

You should go with a Handkerchief incase of sweating or spills during the course of your interview.

4. Backup Technology

a) A Fully Charged Phone (on Silent)

Make sure your phone is fully charged, you might need it for directions or emergency calls, it could also be used for a last-minute Research, however you should keep it on silence or even turn it off during interviews, this will help avoid distractions

b) A Copy of the Job Description

If you have a printed copy of the job description, it will allow you to always reference it when you are being interviewed.

c) Email Confirmation or Interview Details

Try to print out or screenshot your interview invitation, make sure you have the date, time, location, the name of the person interviewing you, this is to make sure all the details you have are correct.

Conclusion

When going for an interview, getting all the right things needed for the interview has already put you on course for success, it’s also inevitably going to make a lasting impression on your interviewer which will give you the much needed advantage.

Once you are well prepared, you are going to be more confident of landing your job. Now that you already know what to bring to the interviews, you should focus more on practising your answers and doing more research on the company.