An in-person meeting with a recruiter is an important step in your job search, offering a chance to move beyond the digital application and make a human connection. How you prepare for this interaction can directly influence the recruiter’s perception of your professionalism and readiness for a new role. Arriving well-equipped demonstrates foresight and a serious approach to your career advancement.
Essential Documents to Carry
The primary document is your resume. You should bring multiple copies, even if you have already submitted one electronically. An unexpected colleague might join the meeting, and providing them with a physical copy is a sign of preparedness. These resumes should be printed on high-quality, clean paper to convey a sense of professionalism.
Alongside your resumes, a dedicated list of professional references is necessary. This document should be printed on a separate sheet of paper that matches the quality and style of your resume. For each reference, include their full name, current title, company, a professional email address, and a direct phone number. It is also helpful to briefly note your relationship to them, such as “former direct supervisor” or “project collaborator.”
Practical considerations for entering the building should not be overlooked. Many corporate offices have security protocols that require visitors to present a photo ID to receive a visitor’s pass. Therefore, having your driver’s license or another form of government-issued identification is a practical necessity to ensure you can access the office without any issues.
Tools for Active Engagement
Carrying a professional notebook and a reliable pen is an effective way to demonstrate your attentiveness. Taking notes on key details about a role, the company culture, or next steps shows that you are processing the information thoughtfully and are serious about the opportunity. This action stands in stark contrast to using a phone, which can be perceived as distracting or unprofessional.
A prepared list of questions for the recruiter is also important. Having thoughtful inquiries ready shows that you have done your research and are genuinely interested in finding the right fit. These are not questions whose answers are easily found online, but rather those that seek deeper insight. Consider asking, “What are the most important skills and qualities you’ve seen in people who have been successful in this role?” or “Can you describe the team dynamic and how this position fits within it?” Another strong question is, “What are the next steps in the hiring process, and what is the anticipated timeline?”
Professional Presentation Items
A clean, organized briefcase, a structured tote bag, or a professional portfolio folder is expected. This prevents you from handing over crumpled documents and enhances your polished appearance. Using a casual backpack or gym bag can detract from the professional impression you want to make.
For many roles, particularly in creative, technical, or design-focused fields, a portfolio of your work is a powerful tool. This could be a physical collection of design samples, writing clips, or a digital presentation on a tablet or laptop. If using a digital portfolio, ensure it is fully charged and that all relevant files are pre-loaded and easily accessible to avoid delays from searching for files or relying on a spotty internet connection. While a digital portfolio is convenient, leaving a physical item like a high-quality printout can sometimes make a lasting impression.
Carrying personal business cards can be a professional touch. They provide an easy way to share your contact information and can be a useful networking tool. A simple, professionally designed card with your name, phone number, email address, and a link to your LinkedIn profile is sufficient to leave a lasting professional mark.
What You Should Not Bring
Arriving with food or a beverage like a coffee cup can be distracting and creates a risk of spills or awkwardness during the meeting. It is best to finish any snacks or drinks before you enter the building. Your focus, and the recruiter’s, should be entirely on the conversation without any unnecessary items on the table between you.
Under no circumstances should you bring a guest, such as a friend or family member, to a meeting with a recruiter. This is a professional engagement, and having someone accompany you is unprofessional. The meeting is about your qualifications and your potential fit for a role, and the presence of a guest can be a distraction.
Finally, be mindful of personal grooming, specifically strong scents. Avoid wearing excessive perfume or cologne, as some individuals have allergies or sensitivities to fragrances, which can create an uncomfortable environment in a closed office space.
Final Preparation Before You Leave
First, silence your mobile phone. A vibrating phone can be as disruptive as a ringing one, so turning it off or putting it on silent mode is the best option. Tuck it away out of sight for the duration of the meeting.
Next, perform a final appearance check. Ensure your attire is neat, clean, and appropriate for a professional setting. This last look can help you catch any minor issues and boost your confidence, allowing you to focus on the conversation.
Confirm the recruiter’s office location and review your travel route. Plan to arrive approximately 10 to 15 minutes early. This buffer accounts for unexpected traffic or delays and allows you a few moments to compose yourself in the lobby. Lastly, take one final glance at your resume to refresh your memory of your own career history and accomplishments.