What Should I Take With Me to a Job Interview

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Why What You Bring Really Matters
3. Core Principles: Pack Like a Professional
4. The Interview Kit: What To Bring (Detailed)
5. Preparing the Documents: Formats, Numbering, and Paper Choices
6. How to Pack and Organize Your Kit
7. The Morning Of: A Practical Routine
8. A Sample Pack: Essential Interview Day Checklist
9. What Not To Bring: Keep the Focus on You
10. Interview Strategy: Using Your Kit To Influence Outcomes
11. Special Considerations for Global Professionals
12. Interview-Day Mistakes I See — And How To Avoid Them
13. Practice That Transitions Preparation Into Performance
14. After the Interview: What To Carry With You
15. Making the Kit a Habit: A Simple Weekly Routine
16. Resources and Next Steps
17. Conclusion
18. FAQ

Introduction

You’ve been invited to interview — congratulations. That moment, more than any rehearsed answer, is when what you bring and how you present yourself will either reinforce your credibility or create avoidable friction. For ambitious professionals who may also be managing relocation, remote interviews across time zones, or the expectation of immediate onboarding, the right kit matters more than ever.

Short answer: Bring the essentials that prove you’re prepared, capable, and culturally aware. That means clean, organized paper and digital copies of your resume and portfolio, a small set of contingency items (chargers, breath mints, stain wipes), identification and directions, a compact set of notes with strong STAR(T) stories, and the right attitude. For global professionals, add any work-authorization documents and translated certificates you might reasonably be asked to present.

This article shows you exactly what to pack, how to organize everything for calm delivery, and how to adapt the checklist for international interviews or quick-turn onboarding. I’ll share practical frameworks I use with clients as an Author, HR and L&D Specialist, and Career Coach so you can move from anxious preparation to confident performance, whether you’re interviewing in-person or across borders. If you want tailored advice on building a personalized interview roadmap, you can book a free discovery call to map a plan that fits your role and mobility goals.

My thesis: a deliberately prepared interview kit reduces cognitive load, demonstrates professionalism, and gives you the space to perform at your best — while also positioning you to move quickly if international relocation or urgent start dates come into play.

Why What You Bring Really Matters

First impressions are logistical as well as interpersonal

Interviewers form impressions within seconds. What you carry — the neatness of your folder, whether your documents are accessible, whether your devices are charged — signals how you’ll show up on the job. Beyond that, small failures (a phone alarm going off, a coffee stain, missing paperwork) create avoidable distractions that pull attention away from your answers.

Preparedness reduces stress and improves responses

When your materials are organized, your brain doesn’t need to search through your bag in the middle of an answer. That small reduction in cognitive load helps you remain present, listen better, and deliver clearer examples. Preparation also helps you recover gracefully when unexpected things happen — an interviewer arrives late, a second person joins, or you’re asked to show work on the spot.

For global professionals, documents equal credibility

If you’re interviewing while considering a move, employers often test how quickly you can verify work eligibility or professional credentials. Having notarized copies, translations, or digital scans ready can accelerate hiring decisions and show you’re serious and mobile-ready.

Core Principles: Pack Like a Professional

Principle 1 — Prioritize access and simplicity

Everything in your interview kit should be easy to reach and obvious to use. Keep your primary folder or padfolio organized so you never have to rifle through your bag.

Principle 2 — Think in scenarios, not items

What you bring should cover likely contingencies: extra interviewers, a request to write or present, identity verification, or a sudden change in schedule. Plan for those scenarios and ask, “If this happens, what would I need?” and then pack that.

Principle 3 — Show, don’t tell

Bring tangible proof of impact. Whether that’s a one-page case summary, a PDF on a tablet, or a physical portfolio, make it simple for the interviewer to see your results.

Principle 4 — Respect culture and context

Match your bag and materials to the company culture. A conservative role prefers a refined padfolio; a startup interview may be more casual but keep your materials professional and accessible nonetheless. For international interviews, adjust for local expectations around documentation and presentation style.

The Interview Kit: What To Bring (Detailed)

Below I break the items into categories and explain not just the what, but the why and how to prepare each item so it functions under pressure.

Documents and evidence

• Multiple printed copies of your resume. Use quality paper and bring three to five copies in a clear sleeve. Print one extra for yourself so you can reference the same layout and phrasing during the conversation.
• The job description. Print the version you applied to and highlight the responsibilities and core competencies. This helps you tie STAR(T) answers directly to the role.
• A one-page “impact summary” or brag sheet. Condense your top 3–5 career wins into a single page with clear metrics. Hand this to interviewers if the conversation calls for concrete examples.
• References list. Format it like your resume, with names, titles, company, and a line describing your relationship. Bring three to five references on paper but only offer if requested.
• Certifications, licenses, or diplomas if they are relevant. Bring originals or certified copies if you anticipate verification or international recognition may be required.
• Identification. A government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport) is often needed for building access.
• Work authorization documents if you’re applying across borders. If you’re eligible to work in the country, bring the necessary paperwork; if not, bring anything that supports visa or sponsorship discussions. For complex mobility questions, you can schedule one-on-one coaching to plan the documentation you’ll need.

Digital assets

• A charged laptop or tablet, with files open and easily accessible. Don’t waste time booting or hunting folders. If you use cloud storage, have the link and a local copy for offline access.
• A USB drive or portable SSD with copies of your portfolio and presentations.
• A QR code or single-slide summary that links to your professional website or portfolio for easy sharing.
• A clean, presentable copy of your LinkedIn profile ready to show, and ensure your LinkedIn URL is tidy and matches your name.

Preparation aids

• A small padfolio with paper and at least two pens (one as backup). Use the padfolio to store your printed materials and for discreet notes.
• A sheet with pre-written questions for the interviewer. Keep five strong questions that demonstrate curiosity about strategy, team dynamics, or performance expectations.
• STAR(T) story prompts: one page with six-to-eight concise examples you can tailor in the moment. Use the Situation, Task, Action, Result, Tie framework to keep answers crisp and relevant.
• A copy of the company’s most recent annual report, strategic plan excerpts, or news headlines you plan to reference. Keep this short — only the pages you will likely use.

Practical contingencies

• Phone and charger, and a compact battery pack. Put your phone on airplane or silent mode before the interview begins.
• Breath mints or floss (not gum). Mints are quick and invisible; gum is unprofessional.
• Small hygiene kit: deodorant, stain remover pen, tissues, and a lint brush or travel-sized hair product if you anticipate long commutes or sweat.
• A spare shirt or blouse in your car or bag if there’s risk of spills, rain, or overheating.
• Water in a discrete bottle (no noisy packaging) — helpful for dry mouth and pausing to collect thoughts.
• Cash: a few dollars for parking meters, tolls, or unexpected expenses.

Presentation tools

• A printed, bound copy of key portfolio pieces for creative roles — a physical “brag book” can be more memorable than a link.
• If presenting, bring a printed one-page handout to leave behind that summarizes your slides and next steps.
• For technical interviews, local software installed and a sample repo or code screen ready to present.

How to adapt for remote interviews

Even if your interview is virtual, bring a scaled-down kit in reach. Keep printed notes out of view, have your digital files open and named clearly, and test your camera, mic, and lighting early. Place a glass of water within reach and have a tidy background that feels professional.

Preparing the Documents: Formats, Numbering, and Paper Choices

Resume copies — format and presentation

Consistent, clean formatting is essential. Use the same font and header that appears on your digital resume and ensure your name and contact info are clear. Use high-quality 24–32 lb paper and a matching envelope or sleeve to prevent bending.

Make one copy annotated lightly with dots or highlights where you’ll point to achievements during the interview. That copy is for your eyes only.

One-page impact summary — structure

Your impact summary should be a one-page document that uses short bullets with metrics. The top third is a brief brand statement (what you bring), the middle third lists three achievements in a problem-action-result format with specific numbers, and the bottom third outlines immediate value you would bring to the role.

Digital file naming conventions

Name files in a predictable way so you can find them quickly: LastName_FirstName_Resume.pdf; LastName_FirstName_Portfolio.pdf; LastName_FirstName_Impact.pdf. Keep a separate folder called “InterviewMaterials_CurrentEmployerName_Date” on your desktop for rapid access.

Backups and redundancy

Save copies of everything to your phone cloud storage and email yourself the most important files. If you must present and your device fails, you can open the files on another computer.

How to Pack and Organize Your Kit

Choose the right carrier

A slim leather or faux-leather padfolio, a professional messenger bag, or a structured briefcase is ideal. Avoid casual backpacks unless the company culture clearly supports them. Your carrier should have one main compartment for documents and a smaller pocket for chargers and hygiene items.

Organize by priority

Place items in your bag in the order you’ll use them: resume on top, impact summary next, padfolio with notes, and then practical items (charger, mints, tissues). Use sleeves or labeled folders to separate the resume set from the portfolio materials.

Create a single “interview packet”

Assemble a packet for each interviewer if you have multiple interviewers. Place one packet per person in the order you expect to meet them. That way you can hand the exact packet if someone new joins mid-interview.

Prepare pockets and backups

Keep your phone charger and battery pack in an outer pocket for quick access. Keep the spare shirt or tie in a garment bag zipped away so it doesn’t smudge your documents.

The Morning Of: A Practical Routine

Start the day with a checklist-driven routine that reduces anxiety. Arrive early and use the extra minutes to rehydrate, perform a final grooming check, review one STAR(T) story, and remind yourself of your core value proposition for the role.

If you’re traveling to an unfamiliar office, aim to arrive 10–15 minutes early and use any remaining time to breathe and center your focus. If there are building security procedures, have your ID out and accessible to avoid fumbling.

A Sample Pack: Essential Interview Day Checklist

• Several copies of your resume and one impact summary
• Job description and company notes
• Notepad, pen, and pre-written questions
• Identification and references
• Charged phone, battery pack, and laptop (if needed)
• Breath mints, stain remover pen, tissues
• Spare shirt or blazer in the car or bag
• Water bottle and small hygiene items
• Portfolio or work samples (physical and digital)
• QR-code or printed link to portfolio/LinkedIn

(Use this checklist to create a small pre-packed interview bag that you refresh before each interview. This list is intentionally compact so you can carry it without feeling weighed down.)

What Not To Bring: Keep the Focus on You

• Don’t bring food or noisy beverages that can spill.
• Don’t chew gum during the interview.
• Don’t bring children or non-participating guests.
• Don’t carry unnecessary clutter — a tidy bag signals organization.
• Don’t rely on your phone for notes; it’s visible and can be distracting if you use it excessively.

This negative checklist keeps the interviewer’s attention on the conversation and avoids avoidable faux pas.

Interview Strategy: Using Your Kit To Influence Outcomes

Turn your materials into conversational scaffolding

Use your printed resume and impact summary as reference points when an interviewer asks about a project. Instead of reciting, point to the metric on the page, summarize the context, and tie the result to the employer’s needs.

Leave-behind documents

If an interviewer asks for more detail or you’ve presented a case, leave one clean copy of your impact summary or portfolio piece with them. That keeps you top-of-mind after the meeting.

Use the STAR(T) stories deliberately

When answering behavioral questions, use the Situation-Task-Action-Result-Tie structure to stay concise and anchored to the new role. Keep each story to roughly 90–120 seconds. If you must expand, check for interviewer interest before continuing.

Read the room and adapt

If the culture is informal and the interviewer is conversational, adjust your delivery: you can use a softer tone and shorter anecdotes. If the setting is formal, be crisp and data-driven. Your kit doesn’t change — your use of its contents does.

Special Considerations for Global Professionals

Documents for international mobility

If you’re interviewing across borders or for roles that may require relocation, include certified copies of degree certificates, portfolio translations if necessary, and copies of your passport and any visas. Research which documents are commonly requested for background checks in the target country and bring certified or notarized copies where appropriate.

Presentation and localization

Adjust examples and terminology to the region. Use metrics and currencies that the interviewer will understand, and be aware of differing workplace expectations around assertiveness, eye contact, or formality.

Time-zone and remote logistics

For remote interviews scheduled across time zones, confirm the time zone with the interviewer and include a calendar invitation with clear time-zone information. On the day of the interview, test your connection and have a phone dial-in plan in case your Wi-Fi drops.

Cultural etiquette

Small courtesies matter: plan for the handshake norms of the region or, if local cultures favor a bow or a different greeting, adapt accordingly. When in doubt, observe and mirror the interviewer’s lead.

For help mapping a mobility-ready interview kit tailored to your situation, consider a short planning session — I offer personalized sessions to prepare professionals for cross-border interviews and rapid relocation conversations, and you can talk to me directly about your case.

Interview-Day Mistakes I See — And How To Avoid Them

Mistake: Overpacking and clutter

Overpacking can cause you to fumble. Stick to the essentials and organize by priority. Create a standard layout and rehearse pulling each item from the bag so you don’t fumble.

Mistake: Relying on tech without backups

Bring a local copy of your presentation and a printed summary. If you must present on-site using company equipment, bring an adapter and your own clicker. If you’re showing code or a website, cache a local copy.

Mistake: Reading notes verbatim

Notes are a safety net, not a script. Use them for cues and numbers, but not as a substitute for eye contact and conversational flow.

Mistake: Ignoring local documentation requirements

If you’re applying internationally, ask the recruiter in advance what documents you should bring to avoid awkward last-minute searches for certificates or proof of identity.

Practice That Transitions Preparation Into Performance

Practical rehearsal converts a prepared kit into confident behavior. Do three timed mock interviews focusing on different aspects: one behavioral, one technical, and one with an unexpected question. Practice pulling a resume or portfolio piece during the mock to simulate stage movements and build muscle memory.

If you want a structured practice plan that builds confidence and behavioral fluency, my Career Confidence Blueprint course provides a process to design interview stories and rehearsal schedules, and you can explore the course’s approach to interview skill-building as a follow-up to this article through a structured interview training option.

After the Interview: What To Carry With You

Don’t toss your packet once you leave the room. Keep one clean packet for follow-up conversations and retain a digital copy of any documents you handed over. Send a succinct thank-you email that references one or two key points from your conversation and, when appropriate, attach your impact summary or a direct link to the portfolio piece you discussed.

If you need templates for follow-up emails, resumes, or tailored cover letters, you can download professional resume and cover letter templates to streamline the next steps and avoid rewriting from scratch.

Making the Kit a Habit: A Simple Weekly Routine

Create a reusable interview folder in your digital and physical space. Update the folder weekly with fresh metrics and one new STAR(T) story. If you’re actively interviewing, refresh printed resumes every few interviews to reflect feedback and new phrasing that resonates with interviewers.

If building the habit feels overwhelming, a compact, repeatable routine helps: review one story each morning, quick-scan your pack the evening before, and perform a five-minute mental rehearsal on the way to the interview.

Resources and Next Steps

If you’re preparing for multiple interviews or a high-stakes role, consider pairing document readiness with behavioral coaching to accelerate your performance. My clients often combine template-driven document prep with targeted practice to build both credibility on paper and conversational fluency across interviews. For an immediate resource, you can downloadable resume templates and quick cover letter formats to get your documents interview-ready.

To build a repeatable practice schedule and structured confidence plan, the course materials in a confidence-building course map directly to the interview kit and rehearsal steps described above.

If your next interview could lead to an international move or you need a mobility-ready checklist tailored to a specific country or visa type, I provide targeted coaching and documentation planning — talk to me directly so we can design a kit that matches your timeline and mobility goals.

Conclusion

An interview kit is more than a bag of items — it’s a physical extension of your professional brand, a buffer against surprises, and a confidence tool that keeps you present and persuasive. Pack with intention: prioritize clear, accessible documents, reliable digital backups, hygiene and contingency items, and a short set of STAR(T) stories that demonstrate measurable impact. For professionals considering international moves, include certified documents and localized materials so you can respond quickly to requests and demonstrate mobility readiness.

If you want help building a customized interview roadmap that aligns your career ambition with global mobility, book a free discovery call now: Book your free discovery call.

FAQ

What are the absolute essentials I should not forget?

At minimum: several clean copies of your resume, a one-page impact summary, a padfolio with pen and paper, a charged phone and charger, photo ID, and at least three STAR(T) stories you can tell naturally. For global roles, add work-authorization documents.

Is it okay to bring notes into the interview?

Yes. Notes demonstrate preparation when used sparingly. Use them as prompts for figures, dates, or follow-up questions, but avoid reading answers verbatim. Practice using your notes so it feels natural.

How many copies of my resume should I print?

Bring three to five copies, depending on the size of the interview panel. If you expect a single interviewer, three copies are usually sufficient. Always include one copy for yourself to reference.

Should I bring my portfolio on a laptop or printed?

Bring both if feasible. Digital versions are quick to share, but a small selection of printed, high-quality portfolio pieces can be memorable and easier for interviewers to review during the conversation. If you must choose, prioritize a digital version that’s instantly accessible and backed up.