what to bring into an interview

Natashya

2 min read

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26-12-2024

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Landing an interview is a significant achievement. It shows your resume and cover letter impressed the hiring manager enough to warrant a face-to-face (or virtual) meeting. Now, the real work begins. To make a strong impression and maximize your chances of success, careful preparation is key – and that includes knowing exactly what to bring to the interview. This article will cover everything you need to ensure a smooth and confident interview experience.

Essential Items for Every Interview

1. Copies of Your Resume: Always bring several extra copies of your resume, even if you've already submitted one. This demonstrates preparedness and allows you to leave a copy with each interviewer, or provide one should someone unexpectedly join the meeting.

2. A Professional Portfolio (if applicable): If you're applying for a creative role (design, writing, photography, etc.), bring a portfolio showcasing your best work. Make sure it’s well-organized, visually appealing, and relevant to the job description.

3. A Notepad and Pen: Taking notes during the interview shows engagement and allows you to jot down important information, questions to ask, and key takeaways. It also helps you remember details later.

4. Your Interview Confirmation: This seemingly small item serves as a quick reference for the time, location, and interviewer's name. Double-checking the details shows attentiveness to detail.

5. A Professional Bag: Choose a bag that complements your outfit and can comfortably carry all your essentials without looking bulky or disorganized.

Helpful Items to Consider Bringing

6. List of Questions to Ask: Prepare insightful questions beforehand. Asking thoughtful questions showcases your interest and initiative. This demonstrates you've done your homework and are genuinely engaged.

7. Reference List (optional): While not always necessary for initial interviews, it’s advisable to have a list of professional references ready in case they are requested. Ensure you've contacted your references beforehand to let them know you may use them.

What NOT to Bring to an Interview

1. Excessive Personal Belongings: Avoid bringing unnecessary items like large bags, shopping bags, or anything that might distract from the interview itself.

2. Food or Drinks (unless offered): Unless explicitly offered, refrain from bringing food or drinks to avoid potential spills or distractions.

3. Your Phone (on silent): While keeping your phone on silent might seem sufficient, it's best to turn it completely off to avoid any interruptions or the temptation to check it.

Preparing for a Virtual Interview

While the essentials remain the same, virtual interviews have some unique considerations:

• A reliable internet connection: Ensure your internet connection is stable and fast to avoid interruptions.
• A quiet and well-lit space: Choose a professional backdrop that's free of distractions.
• A backup plan: Have a secondary device ready in case of technical difficulties.

Conclusion

Preparing for a job interview involves more than just researching the company and practicing your answers. Bringing the right materials and being well-organized can make a significant difference. By following this checklist, you'll demonstrate professionalism, preparedness, and genuine interest, significantly increasing your chances of success. Remember, the goal is to leave a lasting positive impression and highlight your suitability for the role. Good luck!