Job interviews are understandably stressful. You can tell if you’re getting a job, which can create a lot of pressure, especially if you’ve never had an interview.
By preparing and practicing typical interview questions, you’ll improve your chances of getting a good interview and the job. Even if you don’t end up getting the job, a good interview can leave a good impression for future opportunities. However, preparation is only half the battle; You should come to the interview prepared for everything.
If you’re not sure what to bring to an interview, we’ve got the answers for you.
We answer your everyday questions
How do you share a google calendar?
What to bring to an interview
According to Indeed, here are seven things to bring to an interview.
- Copies of your CV
- Bring at least five copies in a binder or professional folio so they won’t bend and are easily accessible.
- Mandatory Questions
- If you’re asked if you have any questions during your interview, it’s good to jot some down on paper beforehand for future reference.
- A list of references
- You may not be asked for references, but you never know what an interviewer will ask, so come prepared. References should be people who can speak about your professional skills. Family and friends should be off this list, but former teachers or community leaders can be good options if you don’t have prior work experience.
- directions
- You don’t want to get lost before your interview or you might be late, so it’s good to bring directions with you. Try to arrive 10-15 minutes early to ensure you are not late.
- A briefcase, bag or portfolio
- All of these can help organize your stuff while keeping you looking neat and professional. Backpacks can sometimes be acceptable, but use your best judgment in deciding which bag to bring based on your knowledge of the company culture.
- Peppermints or chewing gum
- Peppermints and chewing gum can help you feel clean and confident ahead of your interview
- pen and paper
- Taking notes during an interview can be helpful, especially if you want to follow up later and say thank you to your interviewers.
Employers tend to hire people with skills rather than experience
5 interview preparation tips you won’t want to skip
What not to bring (or do) to an interview?
An interview can be the deciding factor in whether you get a job. According to Indeed, here are the things to avoid when interviewing:
- be arrogant
- Avoid eye contact
- lateness
- be too soon
- lying
- fidgeting
- Blaming others for your mistakes
- checking the time
- Answer the phone
- Pretending or saying you’re desperate for the job
- appear angry
- cross arms
- Use aggressive or defensive language
- come unprepared
- looks bored
- Be rude
- meal
