Published: 7 April 2022
The interview process can be exciting. Yes, of course, the nerves are there, but it’s also an opportunity to achieve something brilliant - getting a new, or first, job and taking steps towards reaching your goals.
With all that, the preparation, learning about a company and practising your preprepared answers, it’s easy to forget the little things, like what you need to bring to the interview. We’ve put together a quick checklist to help.
Yourself
Obviously, the most important thing you need to take along is you. That doesn’t just mean you need to show up though.
Bringing yourself is actually about making sure the best, most employable version of you is there in that interview.
Make sure you’re alert, informed and friendly. This is a great opportunity to make a fantastic first impression.
Of course, bringing yourself also means showing up on time (actually try to be there 10 to 15 minutes early).
With that in mind, set alarms, plan (and practice) your route and think through what you need to do if things like train delays or traffic come up.
Notepad and pen
Some people aren’t sure whether they should bring things to write with during an interview.
The reality is you may not have much to put down on paper, but it performs another function.
It shows how ready you are, giving the impression that you are a prepared, keen person.
Of course, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use your pen and paper during the interview.
You’ll most likely be given the opportunity to ask questions at the end. While you can, and should, prepare these in advance, you might think of something during the rest of the interview.
If that’s the case, it’s a good idea to make a note of it so you can remember to ask your question at the end.
Your CV
When you get the invitation to interview, the HR department might ask you to bring along copies of your CV.
Even if they don’t, it’s a good idea to print out enough for each of your interviewers to have a copy - you should be told who will be interviewing you beforehand but if you’re not sure give the company a call.
While you will have sent your resume over during the application process, that might have been weeks or even months ago.
Even if they don’t reference your CV during the conversation, you’ll be leaving them with something physical as a reminder of how great an applicant you are.
Breath mints
Sometimes it’s the little things that leave an impression when you meet someone.
You’ll have spent so much time preparing, including choosing your outfit and making sure your hair is perfect.
Don’t let all that effort go to waste with bad breath.
Even something like what you have for breakfast or a quick cup of coffee to wake you up can have an impact so make sure you eat a mint.
Also, be sure to finish it before heading in - it doesn’t look good to be eating in an interview.
Above all, preparation is key to a successful interview. That should cover everything from knowing about the company and preparing answers to what you take with you on the day.
Get ready and you’ll be giving yourself the best chance possible to succeed.
With a degree from the University of Sunderland in London, you’re positioning yourself for a brilliant career, whichever industry you want to work in.
For more information, go to our Careers and Employability page. You can also read about employability skills on our news pages.
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