What to Bring to an Interview

What to Bring to an Interview via Pixabay Resume Always bring a few extra copies of your resume. I usually bring three copies with me because you never know how many people will be interviewing you. During your interviewer’s busy day, they may have forgotten to print out your resume, so when you show up already one step ahead, it puts you in front of other candidates. Make sure that the resume you bring is the one you submitted in your application. Since you should tailor your resume to the position you’re applying to, it’s easy to print out the wrong one. Just make sure to double check! via Pixabay Reference list You typically don’t submit this document when applying for jobs, so it’s extremely important for you to bring with you to the interview. At the end of your interview, they are bound to ask you about a list of references they can contact with questions. Bring as many copies of this list as you do resumes so every interviewer can take a copy. A good rule of thumb for the number of references on your list is three. Depending on the position you are applying to, these references may change. Make sure you ask if you can use references before putting them down on your list! via Pixabay Notebook Pen You never know when you’ll need to write something down. If the interview is more information based than question-based, then it may benefit you to jot down some notes about the company and position. Your interviewer may recommend something either related to the position or a book to read. If you have come prepared with a notebook and pen, then you can write down the recommendation. It all depends on the interview on whether or not is it appropriate to take out a notebook and start taking notes. It’s important to be aware of the situation and evaluate the best way to behave. Questions One of the best pieces of advice I received is to always ask at least two questions at the end of an interview. While you are doing your pre-interview research about the company and position, come up with potential questions to ask before going into the interview. Not only does this prepare you for one of the most important parts of the interview, but you will feel more at ease and less put-on-the-spot. There many questions that you can ask your interviewer relating to the responsibilities involved, what a normal day looks like, or any genuine questions you have about the company or position. via Pixabay Portfolio Work samples Depending on the position you are interviewing for, it may be necessary or helpful to bring samples of past work. This would be especially important if you are interviewing for a graphic design position or writing position. Make sure to bring a copy to leave with your interviewer to review later on when comparing candidates. Not only does this show that you are prepared and on your game, but it leaves an impression on your interviewer. Identification card It’s always a good habit to carry some kind of identification on you no matter where you go. When you go for a job interview, depending on the location, there may be a security guard in the lobby that asks you to sign in. Instead of worrying about being late because you didn’t have your ID on you, bring it with you. Keep it in your wallet or in your phone case. via Pixabay Smile Confidence The most important thing to bring with you is a smile and your confidence to a job interview. When you walk into an interview knowing that you are qualified for the position and would benefit the company, you are more likely to do well during the interview. It’s important to know the difference between confidence and arrogance, though. Relax and smile while you are in the interview. The worst that can happen is that you don’t get the job. When you smile, it shows that you are friendly, positive, and someone people would want to work with in the office.