Preparing for a job interview extends beyond rehearsing answers to common questions. The items you bring, or choose to leave behind, contribute to the first impression you make. A candidate’s professionalism is judged from the moment they enter the building, and carrying inappropriate items can convey unpreparedness or a lack of seriousness. Understanding what to exclude from your interview checklist is an effective way to ensure your focus remains on your qualifications and the conversation at hand.
Physical Items to Leave Behind
Your choice of personal items speaks volumes, so it is important to avoid anything that appears unprofessional or distracting.
- Food, drinks, and gum: Avoid bringing any consumables into an interview setting. The risk of a spill on your attire or company furniture is high, and eating or drinking is a significant distraction. Chewing gum can be perceived as overly casual and unprofessional.
- Large bags or backpacks: While a sleek portfolio or professional handbag is appropriate, a large backpack can appear out of place. Navigating office spaces with a bulky bag is awkward, and it can create a cluttered appearance when placed on the floor.
- Unnecessary electronics: Items like headphones, tablets, or personal gaming devices have no place in an interview. The presence of headphones, even around your neck, can signal that you are disengaged or not fully present, suggesting a focus on personal entertainment.
- Strong scents: Heavy perfumes or colognes can be overwhelming in a small office. Since some individuals have sensitivities or allergies to strong fragrances, it is best to opt for a clean, neutral scent from unscented hygiene products.
- Excessive or flashy accessories: Large, noisy bracelets, novelty ties, or conspicuous rings can draw attention away from your qualifications. The objective is for the interviewer to focus on your professional capabilities, so opt for simple, understated accessories.
People You Should Not Bring
A job interview is a professional meeting that you must attend alone. It is never appropriate to bring anyone with you, such as a parent, friend, partner, or child. Arriving with an entourage can be interpreted as a sign of dependence and a lack of self-confidence.
Bringing someone along, even if they wait in the lobby, creates an awkward situation for the receptionist and hiring manager. It raises questions about your ability to navigate challenges independently. The interview is your opportunity to demonstrate personal accountability, and arriving solo is the first step.
How to Properly Manage Your Phone
Properly managing your mobile phone is a test of professionalism. It is not enough to silence your device, as the vibration can still be disruptive in a quiet room. Before walking into the building, turn your phone completely off or set it to a silent mode with no vibration.
Once silenced, your phone should be put away and kept out of sight for the entire interview. Placing it on the table, even face down, signals a potential distraction and a divided focus. Stowing your phone in a bag or pocket demonstrates that the interviewer has your complete attention and that you respect their time.
What You Should Bring Instead
To project an image of preparedness, bring multiple copies of your resume printed on quality paper. You may be interviewed by more than one person, and providing each with a copy shows foresight. This also avoids the awkward moment where interviewers have to share a single document.
A professional notepad or a sleek portfolio and a reliable pen are also important. Taking notes during the interview demonstrates that you are engaged and actively listening. It also provides a place to jot down thoughts or questions that arise, showing a genuine interest in the company’s operations.
Come prepared with a list of thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer that reflect your research into the company and the role. Inquiring about team dynamics, company culture, or growth opportunities shows you are seriously considering your future with the organization. For creative or technical roles, a well-organized portfolio is an effective tool to illustrate your skills and accomplishments.