What you bring to an interview won't win you the job, but forgetting something can throw you off at the worst moment. The list is short: copies of your resume, something to write with, the details of who you're meeting and where, and anything the employer asked for. Below is a checklist for in-person interviews, what to leave at home, what to set up for video and phone interviews, and extras for specific types of jobs.
In-person interview checklist
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| 3 to 5 printed copies of your resume | One for each interviewer and a spare; panels often don't have it printed |
| Notebook and pen | To jot down names and details for your thank you email |
| A short list of questions for the interviewer | So you're not stuck at the end |
| Interviewer name(s), phone number and address | In case you're late or the front desk asks |
| Photo ID | Many offices need it to sign in |
| Documents they asked for | References, certifications, transcripts, work samples |
| A simple folder or bag | Keeps your papers flat and tidy |
| Phone, on silent | For directions and emergencies only |
| Breath mints | Use before you go in, not during |
| Water and a small snack | For before, if it's a long day |
If you're not sure whether to bring something, bring it. It's better to have a portfolio you don't show than to need it and not have it.
The night before
- Print your resume and put it in the folder.
- Write your questions for the interviewer on one page.
- Check the address, parking or transit route, and how long it takes.
- Lay out your clothes. Our guide to interview outfits covers what to wear.
- Set two alarms and aim to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early.
What to leave at home
- Coffee or food in hand. Finish it before you go in.
- A large bag or suitcase. If you're coming from a trip, ask if there's somewhere to leave it.
- Strong fragrance. Some people are sensitive to it.
- Gum. Use a mint instead.
- Your phone on the table. Keep it in your bag, on silent.
- Company. If a friend or family member drives you, they wait outside.
Video interview setup
There's nothing to carry, but more to check.
| Item | Tip |
|---|---|
| Laptop, fully charged and plugged in | Close other apps and notifications |
| Meeting link | Open it 10 minutes early; update the app if needed |
| Headphones with a microphone | Cuts echo and background noise |
| Camera at eye level | Put the laptop on a stack of books |
| Light in front of you | A window or lamp behind the screen, not behind you |
| Quiet room and a plain background | Tell people at home you're busy |
| Resume and job post open in a window | For quick reference |
| Notebook, pen, glass of water | Same as in person |
Do a test call with a friend the day before so you can see what the interviewer will see.
Phone interview setup
- Charged phone in a quiet room with good signal.
- Resume, job post and your questions printed or open in front of you.
- Notebook and pen.
- Water.
- Headphones if you'll be on a long call.
Phone screens are usually short and focused; see our phone screen interview questions for what to expect.
Extras by type of job
| Job type | What to add |
|---|---|
| Healthcare | License or certification numbers, BLS/ACLS card, immunization records if asked |
| Trades | Licences, safety certifications, photos of past work |
| Creative and design | Portfolio on a tablet and a printed version of your best pieces |
| Teaching | Teaching license, sample lesson plan, references |
| Driving and delivery | Driver's license and, if asked, a copy of your driving record |
| Sales | Numbers from past roles you can show on one page |
| Technical | A laptop if they said you'll be coding, or a link to your code samples |
| Hospitality and retail | Your availability written down, food handler card if relevant |
What to have ready in your head
Things you can't print but should prepare:
- A 60-second answer to "Tell me about yourself"
- Two or three short stories that show your main strengths
- Why you want this job and this company
- Your availability and notice period
- A realistic salary range, if they ask
After the interview
Write down the names of the people you met and one thing you talked about with each. You'll need them for your thank you email that day. If you're unsure how long you'll be there, our guide to how long job interviews last gives typical times by interview type.
For the end of the interview, prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer; and for everything in between, see how to ace an interview.
Walk in prepared
Rehearse your answers out loud with YesToTheOffer, using your own resume and the job description, and review the transcript before the day. 30 free minutes, no subscription.
