An interview is a performance where preparation goes far beyond practicing answers to common questions. How you equip yourself for the meeting demonstrates a level of professionalism and foresight. Arriving well-prepared is also a practical strategy for managing your own nerves. When you have everything you need, you can walk in with a sense of control and confidence, ready to focus on the conversation.
Essential Documents to Carry
Arriving at an interview with the right documents is a step in showing you are a serious and organized candidate. It is wise to bring at least five printed copies of your resume on quality paper, even if you have already submitted it digitally. You may meet with more people than anticipated, and providing each person with a fresh copy is a mark of preparedness. Having a copy for yourself also allows you to reference specific details about your work history.
Alongside your resume, you should have a separate, printed list of professional references. This document should include each reference’s name, title, company, and contact information. Hold onto this list until the hiring manager requests it, which often happens toward the end of the interview process. It is also prudent to carry a valid photo ID, as some buildings require it for security. Finally, review the interview invitation for any mention of required materials, like a portfolio or certificates, and ensure they are ready.
Tools for Active Engagement
Beyond the documents you might hand over, you should carry items that facilitate your active participation. Bringing a professional notepad and a reliable pen is a simple way to signal your attentiveness. Using them to jot down important details about the role, the company’s projects, or the names of your interviewers shows that you are processing the information thoughtfully. Taking notes can also help you recall specific points later for your thank-you notes.
An impactful tool for engagement is a list of thoughtful, pre-prepared questions for your interviewers. These questions should go beyond basic inquiries about salary and benefits, instead delving into team dynamics, company culture, and opportunities for growth. Asking insightful questions demonstrates your genuine interest in the position and that you have done your research. This preparation turns the interview into a two-way conversation, allowing you to assess if the company is the right fit.
Items for a Polished Presentation
All your documents and tools should be carried in a professional bag, briefcase, or portfolio holder. This ensures your resume copies remain crisp and unwrinkled while keeping you from fumbling with loose papers. A dedicated holder makes a clear distinction between your professional materials and personal items, conveying a sense of organization.
For personal comfort, which directly impacts your composure, a few small items can be helpful. A discreet water bottle tucked away in your bag can be useful for staying hydrated, but it should remain out of sight during the interview. Similarly, breath mints are a good idea for a final refresh before you walk into the building; just be sure to finish them before you meet your interviewer.
What You Should Leave at Home
Just as important as knowing what to bring is knowing what to leave behind, as certain items can create a negative impression or cause distractions. Avoid bringing the following:
- Food or beverages like coffee into the interview, as there is a risk of spills and managing a cup can be awkward.
- Chewing gum, which is unprofessional and should be disposed of before you enter the building.
- Headphones, which should be taken off and stored away completely before you are in sight of the office entrance.
- A phone that is not switched to silent mode, as it must not create any interruptions.
- Strong perfumes or colognes, as a fragrance might be overpowering or allergy-inducing to someone in a small interview room.
Adapting for a Virtual Interview
In a remote interview setting, physical preparedness translates into digital readiness. Have your essential documents saved as clean, easily accessible digital files. Your resume, portfolio, and reference list should be ready to be shared on screen or sent via email. Keep the interview link, the company’s contact information, and the names of your interviewers in a document that is open on your desktop.
Your pre-prepared list of questions should also be easily visible on your screen or on a notepad next to your computer. Test all your technology well in advance. Check your internet connection, camera, and microphone to ensure they are working properly. Pay attention to your environment by selecting a location with a clean, professional, and non-distracting background.