Job Interview Checklist

There are a lot of things (and nerves) going on before an interview. You’re worried about where to go, what time you need to leave, and where to park. Then you start thinking about what to wear, how to dress, and what they’re going to ask. And because of this, you might forget some of the little things. And as stupid as it might sound, we created a Job Interview Checklist to help you prepare.

Below is a checklist of everything you need for your interview –

Extra copies of the resume

You never know when these extra copies will help you. You never know how many people may sit in for the interview, or if you’ll go through different people.  So in that case, make sure you have plenty of clean, crisp, updated copies of your resume. And also leave the impression that you are well prepared, in general, and for the interview. Also, you never know who you might run into before, or after, the interview. It can’t hurt to have extras…

Professional notebook

Having a professional notebook where you keep your things, have questions, and take notes really show that you know what you’re doing. Also that you’re serious about the job. You may need it during the interview to take down notes, which you can ask questions about (or do research on) later. But do take the permission to make the notes while interviewing. It’s going to help you later, so keep it.

List of questions to be asked to interviewers

You should have and prepared the list of questions to ask the interviewer. Do research on the company, and the position, and make a list of  5-10 of the most important questions that you have. Also, show the person interviewing them that you did take time to learn about the company and the job position, it can only help. When the interviewer asks, “So, do you have any questions for me?” you want to have some things prepared, and good to say. Again, this also shows that you are truly interested in the job, and are prepared. 

Sample of your work

This may only apply to certain jobs but definitely wanted to include it in the job interview checklist. If you are going into an interview that may want to see samples, you might as well have them handy. If a portfolio could be applicable, you having one well-arranged in your notebook, makes you just look that much better. 

Look the part

I’ll keep this one simple. Depending on the job, or the company, make sure to look sharp. Clothes, hair, teeth – you want to be fresh. Appearance goes a long way.

Directions 

No one wants to be late at the interview. So make sure that you know exactly where you’re going. Put it in your phone, check on google, and write it down in your notebook. And know how long it’s going to take a day ahead of the interview. Plan accordingly. 

Intangibles 

This is everything else. Things that would be nice to have if something went wrong – mints, tissues, a hairbrush, a lint roller, laptop(?) and any other things you might need throughout the day. Especially if you have a series of interviews, the more you have the better. 

A hard copy of job description

Just in case, have the job posting, and the job description on you. Having the physical copy in your hand while being interviewed, will help you in better presenting yourself while interviewing. You can explain your skills and experience better by associating them with the job description.

Anything you have been asked to bring

Usually, the interview invitation will tell you the things you need to present or have. So check the interview letter before leaving for the interview. Forgetting these things may cost you a job.

In addition to the things on the job interview checklist above, don’t forget to bring your confidence and your smile.

Those are some of the most important things to have on your job interview checklist. We will have a print out for you soon. In the meantime, you can also read more about interview tips here. 

And if you’re waiting to get on an interview, put your job title in the search box below. Hope we can help in that process. Good luck in your job search