Since Graduation is quickly approaching (maybe a little too fast), most of us seniors are scrambling to apply for every job posting we see. After the application process, the next step is hoping to land an interview. It’s crucial to be prepared for those first meetings, so here are a few essential items that will contribute to a successful interview!
1. Daily Planner – Be sure to have your planner ready with the interview date and time penciled in. You will be ready if your interviewer asks you for weeks, days, and times of availability, a second interview, or even a start date! Your daily schedule will be right in front of you!
2. Notebook/Notepad – It’s crucial to jot down a few notes during an interview to remember those key points. You don’t want to forget any important information. If a question pops into your mind during the process but don’t want to interrupt the interviewer, your notebook will come in handy to quickly write that question down so you don’t forget later!
3. Resume folder – Have a ready-to-go copy of your resume with you in a folder to keep that paper crisp and clean! Make sure you print a few extra copies in your folder as well, just in case there is more than one interviewer.
4. Laptop and/or iPad – In the case of any technology-use involved, be sure to take your laptop and/or iPad with you to an interview as well. (Also, make sure it is fully charged.)
5. Pencil/Pen case – Have multiple writing utensils with you and make sure they’re easily accessible. Nothing is worse than going to write notes and your pen is out of ink or you’re digging around in your bag for ten minutes searching for a loose pen somewhere! Having a pencil/pen case will hold all of your writing utensils together and back-ups if needed.
6. Work bag/Tote/Briefcase – Keep everything together in one bag. A work bag will help keep your folders, resume, computer, notebooks, planner, and everything else organized in one spot. You won’t have to worry about anything slipping out of your hands while walking in or out of an interview. Another plus about a work bag or tote is it’s a perfect accessory to complete your professional ensemble!
These are just a few essential items for every interview during your job search process. There are of course other items that you can add to your list, but these few items are crucial and will help you in your perfect interview!