If you want to excel during your interview, preparation is the key to your success. Along with standard steps like researching the role, learning about the company, and practicing your interview answers, you also need to make sure that you have all of the items you need when the day arrives.
With a job interview checklist, you can guarantee that you won’t forget to take something along to the meeting. It makes the process of packing simple, too, making the experience less stressful.
If you want to make sure your completely ready, here’s a job interview checklist that can ensure you cover all of your bases.
Resume Copies
While most professionals turn in their resumes electronically, it’s still a good idea to bring some printed copies of your resume along for an interview. Ideally, you want to have one copy for every interviewer, as well as one for yourself.
If you aren’t sure how many people will be participating in the interview, err on the side of caution. If you have at least six copies at the ready, you’ll have enough for most panel interviews.
Work Portfolio
If you are interviewing for a creative position, having a portfolio of your past work is a smart move. It allows you to show the best of what you have to offer, allowing the hiring manager to see how you apply your skills and the value you can potentially provide.
When putting your portfolio together, make sure it’s organized. The arrangement of the items is a reflection on you, so you want it to appear as professional as possible.
Small Notepad and Pen
Having the ability to take notes is a good idea. It gives you a place to write down the names of the interviewers, jot down details you found interesting, and track critical information.
If you’re worried that it doesn’t leave a great impression on the hiring manager, put that fear aside. It can make you see diligent and detail-oriented. As long as you don’t spend the whole meeting writing, the occasional quick note is fine.
Important Documents
It isn’t uncommon to need a variety of documents with you during an interview. For example, if you’ll be completing an I-9 or filling out a background check form, you might need your picture ID, Social Security card, birth certificate, or passport.
Usually, you’ll be told in advance what kinds of documents are needed. Make sure that you can find the originals and bring the appropriate ones along to your interview.
Ultimately, the job interview checklist above can increase your odds of remembering to pack everything before your meeting. By following it, you won’t have to worry about overlooking something important, ensuring that you can make the best impression possible with the hiring manager.
If you’d like to learn more about how to prep for an interview, the experienced professionals at TempStaff can help. Contact us today and see how our job search expertise can help you find your next job.
