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8 Items To Bring to a Job Interview (In Person or Virtual)

Whether you're preparing for an in-person or virtual job interview, being well-prepared can significantly boost your confidence and leave a lasting positive impression on your interviewer. Bringing the right items to your interview demonstrates your professionalism, attention to detail, and readi...

Daily Remote

published: May 25, 2025

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8 Items To Bring to a Job Interview (In Person or Virtual)

Whether you're preparing for an in-person or virtual job interview, being well-prepared can significantly boost your confidence and leave a lasting positive impression on your interviewer. Bringing the right items to your interview demonstrates your professionalism, attention to detail, and readiness for the job.

In this blog, we will explore eight essential items to bring to a job interview, whether it's conducted face-to-face or virtual, to help you make a strong impression and increase your chances of success.

What To Bring to a Job Interview(In Person or Remote)?

Preparing for a remote job interview requires a slightly different approach compared to in-person interviews. Ensuring you have the right items at hand can help you present yourself professionally and confidently. Here are eight essential items to bring to a remote as well as in-person job interview:

8 Items To Bring to a Job Interview (In Person or Virtual)

Reliable Technology Setup & Documents:

  • Why: Ensuring your technology is working smoothly can prevent technical difficulties that could disrupt the interview.
  • Tip: Test your internet connection, webcam, microphone, and any required software or platforms ahead of time. Have a backup plan in case of technical issues, such as a phone number to call if the video connection fails.
  • In Person: Bring a form of identification and any other documents that may be required, such as certifications, diplomas, or a portfolio of your work.

Copy of Your Resume:

  • Why: Having a digital copy of your resume readily accessible allows you to reference it easily and share it with the interviewer if needed.
  • Tip: Keep it open on your computer or have it saved in an easily accessible folder.
  • In Person: Bring several printed copies of your resume on high-quality paper. This shows that you are prepared and allows you to provide one to each interviewer if needed.

Portfolio or Work Samples:

  • Why: Showcasing your work can provide concrete examples of your skills and achievements, especially important for creative or technical roles.
  • Tip: Prepare digital versions of your work samples or portfolio and have them organized for easy sharing via screen share or email.
  • In Person: If applicable, bring a portfolio of your work or relevant samples that highlight your skills and achievements. This is particularly important for creative roles, such as graphic design or writing.

Notebook and Pen:

  • Why: Taking notes during the interview can help you remember key points and questions to follow up on.
  • Tip: Keep a professional-looking notebook and pen by your side to jot down important information.
  • In Person: Bring a professional-looking notebook and pen to take notes during the interview. This shows that you are engaged and interested in the conversation.

Questions for the Interviewer:

  • Why: Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates your interest in the role and the company.
  • Tip: Prepare a list of questions in advance and have them written down or typed out for easy reference during the interview.
  • In Person: Prepare a list of thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the role, company culture, and team dynamics. This demonstrates your interest and enthusiasm for the position.

Professional Appearance:

  • Why: Dressing professionally, even for a remote interview, helps you make a good impression and puts you in the right mindset.
  • Tip: Choose attire that is appropriate for the role and company culture, and ensure your background is clean and free of distractions.
  • In Person: Dress appropriately for the role and company culture. Ensure your attire is clean, neat, and professional.

List of References:

  • Why: Providing a list of professional references can support your application and show that you are prepared.
  • Tip: Have a digital copy of your references list ready to share via email if requested.
  • In Person: Bring a printed list of professional references, including their contact information and your relationship to them. This can be provided if the interviewer requests it.

Interview Confirmation Details:

  • Why: Having the interview link, login details, and interviewer's contact information readily available helps you avoid any technical issues or confusion.
  • Tip: Print out or save the confirmation email so you can quickly access the necessary information.
  • In Person: Bring a printout or have accessible the details of your interview confirmation, including the address, interviewer's name, and time of the meeting. This helps ensure you arrive on time and prepared.

Conclusion

Bringing the right items to a job interview, whether in person or virtual, can make a significant difference in how you present yourself and your qualifications. By ensuring you have copies of your resume, a portfolio of your work, a list of references, and other essential materials, you can demonstrate your professionalism and preparedness.

Thorough preparation not only helps you feel more confident but also leaves a lasting positive impression on your interviewer. Implement these tips to ensure you are well-equipped for your next job interview and increase your chances of landing the job.

If you're looking for remote jobs, there's no better place to start than DailyRemote. So, what are you waiting for? Get started today.  And now that you know what to bring to virtual interviews, find the remote job of your dreams, start applying today. Join like-minded people in our LinkedIn and Facebook community.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is it important to bring multiple copies of my resume to an in-person interview?

Answer: Bringing multiple copies of your resume to an in-person interview ensures that you have enough for each interviewer, especially if you are meeting with a panel. It demonstrates your preparedness and allows the interviewers to easily reference your qualifications during the conversation.

2. What kind of work samples should I include in my portfolio for a job interview?

Answer: Your portfolio should include work samples that are relevant to the position you are applying for. This could be design projects, writing samples, case studies, or any other examples that showcase your skills and achievements. Make sure the samples are well-organized and highlight your best work.

3. How should I handle technical issues during a virtual interview?

Answer: To minimize the risk of technical issues, test your internet connection, webcam, microphone, and any required software or platforms ahead of time. If technical problems arise during the interview, remain calm and communicate the issue to the interviewer. Have a backup plan, such as a phone number to call if the video connection fails, to ensure the interview can proceed smoothly.

4. What types of questions should I prepare to ask the interviewer?

Answer: Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the company. Examples include inquiries about company culture, team dynamics, future projects, and opportunities for professional development. Avoid questions that can be easily answered through basic research or that focus too much on salary and benefits early in the process.

5. Why is it important to dress professionally for a virtual interview?

Answer: Dressing professionally for a virtual interview helps you make a positive impression and shows that you take the opportunity seriously. It also puts you in the right mindset, boosting your confidence and helping you feel more prepared. Ensure your attire is appropriate for the role and company culture, and that your background is clean and free of distractions.

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