Memory retention plays a big role in the success of your interview: You practice your answers to tough questions and recite information about the company and the role. Because of this, you don’t necessarily put emphasis on the tangible items that can help you out on the big day. Think you’re fine without them? Think again: These 5 extremely useful items will not only relieve stress but will also help to jog your memory during an interview.
1. A screenshot of directions on your phone
Even if you’ve looked up the directions to the office, spotty wifi – or lack thereof, if you’re taking public transportation – can interfere with your access to navigation apps. Getting lost, panicking and rushing into the office soaked in sweat just isn’t a great look for your interview. Instead, look up the location the night before and take a screenshot of the directions. You’ll be able to easily access directions regardless of wifi and make it to your interview on time, stress-free.
2. Notes about the company
You’ve done a lot of research about the position and the company, and you won’t be able to impress your interviewer without referencing the information. Bringing your notes can help serve as the perfect cheat sheet as you wait for your interview to start, so jot everything down on paper or in the notes section of your phone. This will allow you to review everything you’ve researched so that the information is fresh in your mind.
3. Several copies of your resume (in a folder!)
It doesn’t matter if you’ve sent your resume over to interviewers – chances are that they have multiple candidates in the pipeline and need something to jostle their memory during the interview. For each interview, you also need to be prepared to meet with more than one person (if this happens, it’s a good sign!), so print out several copies of your resume the night before. Keep the copies in a folder so that they don’t get crumpled in your bag.
4. A list of questions
It may seem silly to bring in a list of questions to your interview, but you have a lot of things that you already need to remember – and most of your energy has been dedicated to answering the challenging questions that will come your way. When the interview ends, you don’t want to forget the thoughtful questions you’ve prepared.
You can pull these out at the end of your interview with a “Yes, I do have a few questions that I wrote down so I wouldn’t forget.” The employer will love that you’ve actually put time and preparation into finding out more about the role.
5. A portfolio or examples of your work
Whether you have a compilation of your best designs, your greatest articles or a sales or product plan that made a huge impact on the growth of your last company, bringing in your professional portfolio can give you an advantage during your interview. It’s tangible proof that you can follow-through on projects and create impressive results. Not only that, but it’s a great way of reminding yourself of the accomplishments that you should mention – for example, if your interview asks about a time when you had to manage a challenging assignment, you can pull out your portfolio and talk up your experience as your employer reviews your incredible work.
Now that you have this checklist, make sure to bring these items to your next interview – they will set you up for success and are obvious signs to your interviewer that you’re on top of your game!
