What To Bring To An Interview: The Paperwork You'll Need

On average, 31% of employers believe that having initiative is the most critical characteristic to look for when hiring someone. 

Coming prepared for a job interview is one of the best ways to demonstrate your initiative. Preparedness shows that you care about the position, understand what it entails, and possess the drive to get the job done.

But, what should you bring to an interview? Always remember the correct documents and paperwork. 

Keep reading for tips on what to bring to an interview to ensure a positive first impression. 

Copies of Your Resume

Your resume is an interview must-have for any potential job.

Make sure to have four or five copies of your resume on hand with you. If the interview goes well, you may need to meet with others from the department or the hiring manager's boss. 

A company might also ask you to leave a few copies of your resume for human resources (HR) personnel. It's always better to have too many copies with you than not enough. 

Your Reference List

Your reference list is an essential piece of interview paperwork that most hiring managers will want to keep. 

Have your list prepared with at least four of your best professional references. Again, if the interview is successful, you may have several other meetings to attend. Make sure to bring several copies along with you. 

Recommendation Letters

Recommendation letters are great to leave behind for the hiring manager after attending an interview. Although they may not ask for recommendation letters specifically, providing them will show that your previous employers recommend your work.

Bring at least three recommendation letters with you. Staple them all together and leave two sets at the office. Make sure to save a copy of each letter for yourself to keep at home for future reference. 

Your Driver's License

Bring your driver's license for picture identification. 

If you're offered a position on the spot, you'll need your license to fill out the necessary paperwork. It's best to have everything on hand rather than wait another day to process your employment. You don't want to give the company any time to change their minds. 

Social Security Card and Passport

Bring both your social security card and your passport with you to an interview. 

If you get hired right away, you'll need your social security number to fill out government paperwork. Companies often ask for two forms of picture identification, so bring your passport along just in case. 

Portfolio of Work

A portfolio is essential when asked to provide examples of your work.

Come prepared with examples of architectural designs, graphic artwork, writing samples, marketing promotions, photographs, or advertisements- whatever fits best for the job you are applying for. 

It's helpful to include significant diplomas and certificates you've earned that may to the job. If you've lost a vital certificate, you can find a company to reproduce it for you. 

What to Bring to an Interview for Success

Now that you know what to bring to an interview, you're ready to make a positive first impression. 

Create a checklist, remember your copies, and have confidence. By bringing the correct documents and paperwork, you will demonstrate to the employer that you are prepared and capable.  

For more helpful tips and tricks, check out the latest stories in The Dads Newsroom.