What to Bring to a Job Interview

Walking into a job interview feeling prepared and confident starts before you even arrive. Having the right materials with you demonstrates professionalism, ensures you’re ready for anything that might arise, and prevents the kind of fumbling and apologizing that can undermine an otherwise strong interview performance.

The last thing you want is to be asked for an extra copy of your resume and not have one, or to need to write something down and scramble for paper and pen. These small failures of preparation don’t necessarily doom your candidacy, but they chip away at the polished, competent impression you’re trying to create.

This comprehensive guide provides a complete checklist of what to bring to in-person interviews, organized by category and importance. You’ll learn what’s essential, what’s helpful, and what might give you an extra edge. Whether you’re interviewing for your first professional role or your fifteenth, being thoroughly prepared shows respect for the opportunity and confidence in your candidacy.

Essential Documents

These documents are must-haves for virtually every in-person interview.

Multiple copies of your resume Bring at least five printed copies of your resume, even if you’ve already submitted it electronically. Interviewers may not have printed copies, interviews sometimes involve more people than expected, and having your resume on hand allows you to reference it when answering questions. Print on high-quality paper if possible—standard white or cream resume paper makes a better impression than regular copy paper.

A printed copy of the job description Having the job description allows you to reference specific requirements during the interview and ensures you remember what they’re looking for. Print it from the original posting before it potentially gets taken down.

A list of your references Even if you’re not asked to provide references during the interview, having a formatted reference list ready demonstrates preparation. Include at least three professional references with their names, titles, companies, phone numbers, and email addresses. Let your references know they may be contacted.

A professional portfolio or work samples (if applicable) For creative, technical, design, writing, or other fields where showing work matters, bring a physical or digital portfolio of relevant work samples. Have both formats available when possible—a tablet or laptop for digital work, printed samples for work that benefits from physical presentation.

Identification documents Bring a government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport) in case you need it for building security or entrance procedures. Some companies require ID for visitor badges.

Note-Taking Materials

Being able to take notes demonstrates engagement and helps you remember important details.

A professional notepad or portfolio A leather or professional-looking portfolio that holds a notepad creates a polished impression. Avoid spiral notebooks or casual notepads with bright colors or unprofessional designs.

Multiple working pens Bring at least two pens in case one fails. Black or dark blue ink is most professional. Avoid novelty pens, pens with business logos, or pens in unusual colors.

A professional folder or binder Use a folder or binder to keep all your documents organized, clean, and unwrinkled. A professional folder also prevents you from fumbling through loose papers.

Questions and Preparation Materials

Show you’ve prepared by having questions and research organized.

A list of questions to ask Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, team, company, and growth opportunities. Write them down so you don’t forget them—it’s perfectly acceptable to reference notes when asking questions. Aim for at least five to ten questions, though you likely won’t ask all of them.

Notes from your research Key facts about the company, recent news, information about the interviewers—having these written down helps you reference specific details and remember relevant points during conversation.

A summary of your key talking points Bullet points of the accomplishments, experiences, and qualities you want to emphasize help ensure you cover your most important material.

Personal Essentials

Small personal items can prevent embarrassing moments and help you present your best self.

Breath mints or breath freshener Bad breath can create an uncomfortable impression. Have mints available (not gum, which shouldn’t be chewed during interviews) to freshen up just before the interview. Use them in the car or restroom, not while walking in.

Tissues A runny nose or unexpected sneeze shouldn’t derail your interview. Having tissues prevents awkward moments.

A small mirror A quick check before entering ensures there’s nothing between your teeth, your hair is presentable, and you look as polished as you intend.

Hair styling tools or products (if needed) If your hair tends to become disheveled, bring what you need to fix it.

A lint roller or brush Dark suits show lint and pet hair obviously. A quick pass before entering removes visible debris.

Stain removal pen Spilling coffee on yourself during the drive would be unfortunate but recoverable if you can address it.

Deodorant Interview nerves can cause sweating. Having deodorant available lets you refresh if needed.

Pain reliever A headache during an interview is distracting. Having ibuprofen or acetaminophen available can be a lifesaver.

Using resources like 0portfolio.com to keep your professional materials organized digitally ensures you always have access to your latest resume, references, and preparation materials—even if you need to print copies at the last minute.

Technical Preparation Items

Depending on the interview type, you may need technology.

A fully charged phone (on silent) Your phone should be charged in case of emergencies but silenced before you enter. Never look at your phone during an interview.

A backup phone charger If you’re traveling from far away or might need your phone for directions, a portable charger prevents battery anxiety.

A laptop or tablet (if presenting work) If you’ll be showing digital work samples or presentations, bring your device fully charged with all necessary files accessible offline.

Backup files on USB drive Technology fails. Having your presentation or portfolio on a USB drive provides backup if your device doesn’t cooperate.

Any requested materials Some interviews specifically request you bring certain items—completed applications, certifications, transcripts, background check authorization forms. Review the interview invitation carefully and bring anything requested.

Professional Extras

These items aren’t essential but can give you an edge.

A professional bag or briefcase How you carry your materials matters. A professional bag creates a more polished impression than a backpack (though some industries are casual enough that backpacks are fine).

Business cards (if you have them) Not everyone has personal business cards, but if you do, they can be a professional touch when exchanged with interviewers. Don’t force them on people, but have them available if the exchange feels natural.

A copy of any certifications or credentials If certifications are relevant to the role, having copies available demonstrates preparation even if they don’t ask.

Letters of recommendation While not commonly requested at interview stage, having copies of strong recommendation letters available shows preparedness.

A thank-you card (to complete immediately after) Having a thank-you card with you allows you to write and mail a handwritten note immediately after the interview, potentially arriving before competing candidates’ emails.

Day-Of Logistics Items

Practical items help the day go smoothly.

Directions and parking information Even with GPS, have the address written down and know where you’ll park. Arriving flustered because you couldn’t find parking undermines your entrance.

Interview contact information Have the name and phone number of your contact in case you’re running late or have trouble finding the location.

A snack and water If you’re traveling or interviewing over a meal time, having a small snack prevents hunger-related crankiness. Stay hydrated but don’t overdo it before an interview.

Money for parking or emergencies Have cash available for parking meters, parking garages, or unexpected needs.

A change of clothes (for all-day interviews) For interviews spanning multiple hours or meal occasions, having backup clothing in your car prevents wardrobe disasters from ruining your day.

Items NOT to Bring

Some items have no place at a professional interview.

Coffee cups or beverages Walking in with a Starbucks cup seems casual at best and disrespectful at worst. If offered a beverage during the interview, accepting is fine.

Food Never bring food into an interview unless it’s a lunch interview and the meal is part of the plan.

Personal shopping bags Coming from shopping suggests this interview isn’t your priority.

Excessive personal items Large purses, multiple bags, or anything that creates a cluttered impression should be minimized or left in your car.

Phone with notifications going off Silence your phone completely. Vibrating notifications are distracting.

Anything with strong scents Heavy perfume, cologne, or scented products can be overwhelming and offensive to some people. Keep scents minimal.

Chewing gum Never chew gum during an interview. If you use gum for breath freshening, dispose of it before entering.

Pets or children This should be obvious, but arrange for other care. Don’t bring dependents to professional interviews.

Organizing Your Interview Kit

Having everything organized makes the day easier and your impression more polished.

Create a dedicated interview kit you can grab and go. A professional portfolio or bag containing all your essential items ensures you don’t forget anything. Check and restock after each interview so it’s always ready.

Organize documents in order of likely need. Resumes should be easily accessible without digging through other materials.

Keep a checklist in your interview kit to review before leaving for any interview.

The Night Before Checklist

Preparation the night before prevents morning scrambling.

Print all necessary documents and place them in your folder or portfolio.

Review your research notes and questions list.

Check that all electronic devices are charged.

Lay out or prepare your interview outfit, including shoes and accessories.

Confirm the interview time, location, and parking details.

Set multiple alarms to ensure you wake up with plenty of time.

Pack your interview bag or kit and place it by the door.

The Morning Of Checklist

A systematic morning routine ensures nothing is forgotten.

Shower and groom yourself professionally.

Eat a reasonable meal—hunger distracts, but overeating can make you sluggish.

Get dressed and do a final check in the mirror.

Review your key talking points and the job description.

Confirm you have everything in your bag.

Use the restroom before leaving.

Leave with plenty of time for traffic, parking, and unforeseen delays.

Arrive in the area early enough to find parking and do a final preparation in your car.

Enter the building five to ten minutes before your scheduled time—not too early, not rushed.

Adapting for Different Interview Types

Different interview situations may require adjustments to your standard kit.

Panel interviews might need more resume copies—bring enough for each panelist plus extras.

Technical interviews might require a laptop with development environments, code samples, or technical certifications.

Creative interviews need carefully curated portfolio materials in appropriate formats.

Full-day or multi-interview sessions benefit from a larger bag that can hold snacks, water, backup clothes, and materials for sustained engagement.

Remote-first companies having occasional in-person meetings might be more casual, but maintaining professionalism through preparation never hurts.

Executive interviews may involve meals, multiple locations, or extended time—prepare for the full scope of what’s scheduled.

What to Do If You Forget Something

Despite best preparations, you might forget something important. Here’s how to handle it.

Forgot resume copies: Apologize briefly and offer to send or email a copy immediately. Ask if they have a copy from your application. Don’t dwell on the mistake.

Forgot reference list: Offer to email it as soon as you leave. This is a minor issue.

Forgot notepad: Ask if they have paper you can borrow, or take notes on your phone. Apologize briefly and move on.

Forgot ID for building security: This may require rescheduling or someone meeting you at the entrance. Call your contact immediately to problem-solve.

Technology failure: Have backup plans. If your laptop dies, describe what you would have shown and offer to send it later.

In any case where you’ve forgotten something, apologize once, offer a solution, and don’t over-explain or let it rattle you. How you handle small setbacks demonstrates professionalism.

After the Interview

Your post-interview actions are part of the process too.

Before you leave the building or parking lot, make notes about what was discussed, who you met, specific topics that came up, and any follow-up items mentioned.

If you brought a thank-you card, write personalized notes while the conversation is fresh and mail them immediately.

Send email thank-you notes within 24 hours to each person you interviewed with.

Note any items you need to send—additional work samples, reference information, or answers to questions you couldn’t address fully.

Replenish your interview kit so it’s ready for the next opportunity.

Conclusion

What you bring to an interview might seem like a minor detail compared to your qualifications and interview performance, but small details create impressions. Arriving prepared with the right materials demonstrates the same organizational skills and attention to detail that employers value in employees.

The candidate who has professional materials ready, can produce whatever’s needed without fumbling, and handles unexpected requests gracefully creates a more positive impression than one who seems disorganized or unprepared. These impressions contribute to the overall evaluation, particularly when choosing between similarly qualified candidates.

Build your interview kit now, not the morning of your next interview. Having everything organized and ready to go reduces pre-interview stress and ensures you arrive confident and prepared. The time invested in preparation pays dividends in the polished, professional impression you create from the moment you walk in the door.