What to bring to a job interview

- When you arrive for an interview there are several things I suggest you have in your bag. First, make sure you have the materials you need to take notes, a pad of paper, a couple of pens. This means that you can capture down information. If you're writing notes during the interview, it shows that you're interested and that you want to make sure you remember the important details. It'll also help you with your follow up communication after the job interview. Bring your electronic portfolio, this will ensure that you have work samples to show, but don't just rely upon the electronic portfolio as there could be issues accessing the internet or having access to a machine. Bring a backup portfolio, physical hard copies if possible, that represents your best work. I also suggest you bring multiple copies of your cover letter, resume and a list of references. This will allow people to read more about you and a follow up afterwards. I strongly suggest you take the time to have a written list of prepared questions. This will show that you're interested in the company. If you've done your homework and you've read about the company, you'll know more about them. Remember, you can look at their LinkedIn profile, their website and industry coverage to have intelligent prepared questions to ask. If you know a bit about the company and you dig in and ask them more, it shows that you're interested in them and their work, and this is one of the things that they're looking for in the best candidate. I also suggest you bring a briefcase or a simple portfolio, or if you do bring a bag make sure it's a bag that looks professional and isn't covered with buttons or bright, gaudy colors. In that bag you may want to include some small snacks and a water bottle. Now, you're not going to eat in front of the people that you're interviewing with, but you may find yourself having multiple interviews that day and being able to refuel in the down periods is important because it will keep your energy up and help you give the best performance. Keeping a water bottle around is also good because you stay hydrated and stay fresh. If you take these steps of making sure you have the tools at your disposal, you will give a great performance and dramatically increase your chance of landing the job.