8 Items To Bring to a Job Interview

Are you tired of walking into job interviews, feeling unprepared and overwhelmed? That nervous energy before a big interview can make you forget even the basics. But don’t worry— in this article, I’ll walk you through the 8 must-have items to bring to a job interview.

What To Bring To A Job Interview

Preparation is key when heading to an interview. Here are eight must-have items that can make all the difference.

A Notepad and Pen

Walking into an interview with a professional notepad and pen shows you mean business. Your interviewers will notice this small but significant detail. Taking notes during the interview helps you remember important points about the role and company.

Think of your notepad as your silent partner in the interview room. It gives your hands something to do when you’re nervous, and writing key points shows you’re engaged and interested in what the interviewer is saying.

The type of notepad you choose matters more than you might think. Pick a professional-looking notebook without flashy designs. A simple leather-bound or basic black notepad works perfectly. Your pen should be reliable and professional – stick to black or blue ink.

Keep your note-taking brief and strategic. Write down key responsibilities, team member names, and follow-up questions. Your notes will prove invaluable when writing your thank-you email or preparing for a second interview.

A Water Bottle

Interviews can be lengthy, and talking extensively can leave your throat dry. A water bottle serves as your backup plan for those moments. Keep it simple and professional with a clear or solid-colored reusable bottle.

Remember to take small sips only when needed. Your water bottle shouldn’t become a distraction during the conversation. Place it discreetly on the floor or to the side of your chair.

Choose a water bottle that’s easy to open without making noise. Avoid bottles that might sweat or leave water marks on furniture. A room-temperature water bottle prevents awkward condensation situations during the interview.

Consider this real-world example: Sarah brought a water bottle to her tech interview. During a coding challenge, she stayed hydrated and composed. Her interviewer later mentioned her preparedness as a positive sign.

Your Resume and Cover Letter

Always bring extra copies of your resume and cover letter, even if you’ve sent them electronically. Pack at least three copies in a clean folder. Your interviewer might bring colleagues you didn’t expect.

Make sure your copies are printed on quality paper. Check that every page is crisp and free of wrinkles or coffee stains. This attention to detail reflects your professional approach.

Store your documents in a professional portfolio or folder. Keep them readily accessible but protected from damage. Having extra copies shows you’re prepared for any situation that might arise.

Consider including a one-page summary of your key achievements. This quick reference guide can help interviewers remember your standout accomplishments. Format it cleanly with bullet points and clear headings.

Your Work Samples or Portfolio (Optional)

A portfolio showcases your achievements in a way that words alone cannot. Include your best projects, presentations, or writing samples related to the position. Keep everything organized in a professional folder or binder.

Only present your portfolio when it’s relevant to the conversation. Wait for the right moment to share specific examples that highlight your skills. Your portfolio should support your answers, not overshadow them.

Digital portfolios also need proper preparation. If you’re bringing a tablet or laptop, download offline copies of your work. Test all links and presentations before the interview to avoid technical issues.

Consider creating a quick reference guide to your portfolio. This will help you quickly find relevant examples during the interview. Include brief descriptions of each project’s impact and results.

Confidence

Before the interview, practice power posing in a private space. Stand tall with your shoulders back and head high. Remember your past successes and achievements. Write them down if needed. These memories can boost your confidence when you need it most during tough questions.

Start building confidence days before the interview. Research the company thoroughly and practice common interview questions. Knowledge breeds confidence, and preparation eliminates surprises.

If possible, learn the names and roles of your interviewers beforehand. Addressing people by name shows confidence and preparation. Review the company’s recent news and achievements.

Pre-written Questions for Your Interviewers

Write five thoughtful questions about the role, team, and company culture. Your questions reveal your genuine interest in the position. Keep your questions organized and easy to read. When the interviewer asks if you have questions, you’ll be ready. This preparation shows you value their time.

Mix strategic and cultural questions in your list. Ask about team dynamics, growth opportunities, and current challenges. Show interest in both the role and the company’s future.

Here’s a practical example: Michael prepared questions about his potential team’s current projects. His interviewer appreciated his specific interest. The conversation became more engaging and memorable.

A List of References

Your references can make or break your job prospects. Bring a neatly formatted list of professional references with current contact information. Include people who can speak about your work ethic and skills.

Make sure you’ve asked your references for permission beforehand. Brief them about the position you’re interviewing for. This helps them provide relevant feedback when contacted.

Format your reference list professionally. Include each person’s name, current title, company, and preferred contact method. Add a brief note about your working relationship with each reference.

Keep your references updated on your job search progress. Let them know when they might expect a call. Thank them for their support throughout your job search process.

What are the 5 C’s of interviewing?

The 5 C’s form the foundation of successful interviews: Clear, Concise, Confident, Concrete, and Candid. Each C represents a crucial element of your interview approach. Clear communication ensures your messages get across effectively.

Concise answers keep the conversation focused and engaging. Confidence shows through your body language and tone. Concrete examples prove your capabilities. Candid responses build trust with your interviewer.

Practice incorporating all five Cs into your interview responses. Record yourself answering common interview questions. Listen for areas where you can improve your communication style. The five Cs work together to create a memorable interview presence. Focus on mastering each element through preparation and practice. Your interviewer will notice the difference in your presentation.

What are STAR(T) Stories?

STAR(T) stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result, and (optionally) Transfer. This method helps you structure your responses to behavioral questions. Start with describing the specific situation you faced.

Explain the task or challenge that needs addressing. Share the actions you took to solve the problem. Discuss the positive results you achieved. If applicable, explain how these skills transfer to the new role.

Prepare at least three STAR(T) stories before your interview. Practice telling them naturally without sounding rehearsed. Focus on stories that highlight your most relevant skills.

Here’s a real example: Lisa used the STAR method to describe how she improved team productivity. Her structured response impressed the interviewer with its clarity and measurable results.

What Not To Bring To A Job Interview

These items might seem harmless, but they can harm your chances of landing your dream job.

Your Phone (Or Keep It Silent)

Your phone can become your biggest distraction during an interview. Even a single notification can break your concentration and annoy your interviewer. If you must bring your phone, keep it completely silent.

If possible, consider leaving your phone in your car. This eliminates any chance of interruption, and your full attention should be on the interview conversation. If you need your phone for directions or emergency contacts, turn it off completely—don’t just switch it to silent mode. Stay fully present to show respect for the interviewer’s time.

Strong Perfumes or Cologne

Strong scents can trigger allergies or sensitivities in others. Your interviewer needs to focus on your qualifications, not your fragrance. Skip the perfume or cologne on interview day.

Many workplaces maintain scent-free policies. Respecting this during your interview shows awareness and consideration. Clean and pressed clothing creates a better impression than artificial scents.

Personal Problems or Negative Attitudes

Leave your personal issues at home. Your interviewer wants to see your professional side. Stay positive and focused on the opportunity, regardless of outside stresses.

Practice maintaining a positive attitude before the interview. Prepare positive responses to challenging questions. Your attitude can influence the entire interview atmosphere.

Conclusion

Success in job interviews comes from careful preparation and bringing the right tools. These eight items will help you present your best self. Remember, it’s not just about what you get, but how you use each item to support your interview performance.

Your preparation shows respect for the interviewer’s time and the opportunity. Each item serves a specific purpose in helping you succeed. Take time to prepare each element thoroughly before your interview.

Also Read: How To Sell Yourself in an Interview

FAQs