Provisional Blog

You have a job interview scheduled and you’ve done all your homework. You’ve researched the company, prepared answers to commonly asked questions, and developed a list of your own thoughtful questions about the position and the employer.

You’re done, right? Wrong!

As one of the Northwest’s leading employment agencies, Provisional knows that besides preparing for what will be discussed, there are also a few items you need to bring along with you. Here’s a look:

Copies of your resume and letters of recommendation.

The interviewer may not have asked for you to bring copies, but it can’t hurt. If there’s someone there who doesn’t have a copy of your resume or recommendation letters, then you can give them one from your stack. This will demonstrate that you’re well prepared for the interview.

A list of three to five references.

Another way to demonstrate your preparation is to create a list of three to five professional references, along with their contact information, and bring it with you. If all goes well, at the end of the interview, the interviewer may ask for you to send along references. And if you’ve already got a list ready to go, you’ll go a long way in impressing them. Remember, though, to contact your references ahead of time so they’re prepared when they get the call.

A pen and paper.

You might think you’ll remember everything that’s said during the interview, but chances are, you won’t. So bring along a pen and paper so you can write down important information, such as the names of the people you’re interviewing with, next steps in the interview process, and any additional information you need to send along after the interview.

Directions and phone numbers.

Be sure to print out directions or plug in the address ahead of time to your car GPS navigation system. Also, bring along the phone number of the person you’re interviewing with, just in case you are running late or need additional directions.

Breath mints.

This one is easy to forget, but all too important, especially considering the amount of talking you’ll probably be doing.

In addition, one item NOT to bring with you into the interview is your cell phone. Even if it’s on vibrate, it can still be heard if there’s a pause in the conversation. So leave it in the car.

Looking for Help Landing Interviews?

Let Provisional know. As one of the Northwest’s leading employment agencies, we partner with some of the top employers throughout the Northwest and can work with you to match you with a rewarding job opportunity. Contact Provisional today to learn more.