Preparing for a job interview can be stressful and overwhelming. Not only are you researching the company to learn as much as you can before sitting down with the hiring team, you’re also scrambling to print off resumes and iron dress clothes. The best way to approach a job interview is by taking time in advance to have everything ready before the big day.
Here are a few things that you should take to a job interview.
Copies of your resume. This is by far the most important item that you will need to take to your interview. If it feels appropriate, try asking in advance how many people will be interviewing you. This will allow you to be sure you have a copy for each person. If you are unable to get this information, a good rule of thumb is to print a few more than you think you will need. Typically, five copies will be more than enough for a first interview, but it’s always better to have more than you need.
A pen and a notepad. You never know what information you will need to remember during an interview and having your own pen and paper to take notes shows that you are prepared and actively engaged in the conversation.
References. Bringing a list of references is important because the interviewer may ask for these during the interview. Typically, these will be requested before the interview, but again, it never hurts to be prepared.
Questions. At some point, usually near the end of the interview, the interviewer will ask you if you have any questions. This is a great time to ask a few questions that will show you are interested in the position. For example, asking about the company culture, how the interviewer likes working for the company, and what if any community service they might be involved in, is a great way to show that you’re thinking beyond the interview.
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