Preparing for a job interview requires careful planning, and bringing the right materials can significantly boost your confidence and professionalism. The most essential items include multiple copies of your resume, a list of references, a notepad and pen for taking notes, and a portfolio or work samples if relevant to the role. These materials demonstrate your preparedness and allow you to showcase your qualifications effectively. Additionally, practical items like a water bottle, breath mints, and a professional folder help maintain composure and organization throughout the process.

Key findings from the sources highlight:

• Copies of your resume (5-7 copies recommended) are universally emphasized as critical ^[2], ^[3], ^[8], ^[9]
• A portfolio or work samples is strongly advised for roles where tangible examples of past work can strengthen your case ^[2], ^[3], ^[8]
• A notepad and pen for note-taking and jotting down follow-up questions ^[2], ^[3], ^[4], ^[10]
• A list of references (3-5 professional contacts) should be prepared in advance ^[2], ^[3], ^[8], ^[10]

Essential Materials for Job Interview Success

Core Professional Documents

Bringing the right documents ensures you can present your qualifications clearly and respond to any requests for additional information. The most critical documents include your resume, references, and any certifications or work samples relevant to the position.

• Copies of your resume: Bring 5-7 printed copies on high-quality paper, even if you’ve already submitted one digitally. Interviewers may not have it on hand, and extra copies allow you to distribute them to multiple people in panel interviews ^[2], ^[9]. For example, Randstad specifically recommends printing 5 copies to cover all potential interviewers ^[9].
• List of references: Prepare a separate sheet with 3-5 professional references, including their names, titles, companies, phone numbers, and email addresses. Only provide this if asked, but having it ready shows foresight ^[2], ^[3]. Goucher College advises including references who can speak to your skills and character ^[7].
• Work samples or portfolio: For creative, technical, or project-based roles, a portfolio is invaluable. This could include design samples, writing clips, code snippets, or project summaries. UniAthena highlights that a portfolio can set you apart by providing tangible proof of your abilities ^[8]. The University of Cincinnati suggests tailoring samples to the job description to demonstrate relevance ^[2].
• Certifications and licenses: If the role requires specific certifications (e.g., PMP, CPA, teaching licenses), bring physical or digital copies. These validate your credentials and can be a deciding factor in technical fields ^[8].

Avoid overloading your folder with irrelevant documents. Stick to materials that directly support your candidacy for the specific role. For instance, while a teaching candidate might bring lesson plans, a software engineer should prioritize code repositories or project documentation.

Practical and Logistical Items

Beyond professional documents, practical items ensure you remain comfortable, organized, and prepared for unexpected situations. These often-overlooked details can make a significant difference in your performance and first impression.

• Notepad and pen: Use these to jot down key points during the interview, such as follow-up steps, names of interviewers, or important company details. Taking notes signals engagement and helps you craft a personalized thank-you note later ^[2], ^[10]. Career.io emphasizes that note-taking shows you value the conversation and are detail-oriented ^[3].
• List of questions for the interviewer: Prepare 4-6 thoughtful questions about the role, team, or company culture. This demonstrates your interest and proactive mindset. Goucher College suggests questions like, “What are the biggest challenges facing the team right now?” or “How do you measure success in this role?” ^[7]. The University of Cincinnati recommends avoiding questions about salary or benefits in early interviews ^[2].
• Water bottle and breath mints: Hydration helps maintain your energy and vocal clarity, while mints ensure fresh breath—especially important for lengthy or back-to-back interviews. Randstad and 4CornerResources both include these as essential "comfort items" ^[9], ^[10].
• Professional bag or folder: A sleek portfolio folder or briefcase keeps documents organized and protects them from damage. Reddit’s checklist specifically mentions a “professional folder” as a must-have to consolidate materials ^[1]. Avoid bulky or casual bags that might detract from your professional image.
• ID and emergency contacts: Some offices require identification for security purposes. Additionally, carry a small emergency kit with items like tissues, a stain remover pen, or bandaids—just in case ^[2]. UniAthena also advises bringing the office address and contact information to avoid last-minute confusion ^[8].

Items to avoid bringing include:

• Food, coffee, or snacks (unless medically necessary) ^[3], ^[10]
• Heavy perfumes or colognes, which can be distracting or trigger allergies ^[3]
• Personal items like pets, children, or friends ^[10]
• Your phone (unless silenced and stored away; only use it for post-interview notes or scheduling follow-ups) ^[2]