Interview Essentials: Top 10 Things to Bring with You
Let’s face it job interviews can be nerve-wracking. Whether it's your first or tenth, the pressure to impress is real. You’ve probably read tons of interview advice, practiced your elevator pitch in the mirror, and Googled tips for your job interview preparation. Still, one lingering question remains: What should I actually bring to a job interview?
Don’t worry, this post has you covered with an updated, practical checklist of essential items to bring that will boost your confidence and help you stay organized and ready to shine.
10 Must-Have Items for Your Interview
1. Printed Resume (Hard Copy)
It might seem obvious, but it's something many candidates still overlook. Always bring a crisp, printed copy of your resume, ideally two or three copies. Keep them organized in a folder to prevent any folds or wrinkles. Pro tip: also keep a digital version on your phone or USB, just in case.
2. Educational & Professional Certificates
If you’ve mentioned courses or degrees on your resume, back them up. Bring originals and copies of certifications, diplomas, and training credentials—especially for roles that emphasize qualifications, like accounting, tech, or healthcare.
Bonus Tip: Completed any of UniAthena's Online Short Courses? Bring those certificates, they show initiative and a commitment to lifelong learning.
3. A Professional Portfolio
If you’re applying for creative roles (like graphic design, marketing, architecture, or UX/UI), a well-organized portfolio is non-negotiable. Carry both printed copies and digital versions of your top work samples. Use a tablet or sleek presentation folder to keep it polished.
4. Important Document Prints
Be prepared and stay ahead by bringing printed copies of your cover letter, recommendation letters, experience letters, and references. Having these documents on hand shows professionalism and ensures you're ready for any request from the interviewer. Even if not requested, being overprepared shows professionalism.
Create a simple, clean reference list with:
Brief note on your relationship with them
Having this handy makes it easier if the hiring manager asks for references on the spot.
6. Office Address & Contact Info
Save the office address and contact person’s details offline—you never know when Google Maps or your mobile data might fail you. Plan your commute in advance and arrive 15–20 minutes early. If you’re in a busy city like Lagos or Abuja, buffer in extra travel time.
Many offices have security protocols that require visitors to present a valid form of identification upon entry. A national ID, a voter’s card, a driver’s license, or an international passport will usually suffice.
Here’s one of the smartest pieces of interview advice: prepare questions to ask your interviewer. It shows engagement and that you’ve done your homework. Write them down if needed. Examples:
What’s the team culture like?
How is success defined and measured for this role within the company?
Could you walk me through the next steps in the interview process?
It may sound minor, but staying hydrated helps reduce nerves and keeps you focused, especially during long interviews. Pack a sleek, refillable bottle. Bonus: it shows you’re eco-conscious!
10. Confidence and a Positive Attitude
Bring your A-game mindset. Remind yourself: You were selected for an interview because you’re qualified. Enter with confidence, speak with clarity, wear a genuine smile, and remember—an interview is just as much your opportunity to evaluate them as it is theirs to assess you. You’re evaluating the company, too!
Dress Smart, Think Sharp: Bonus Tips
Tailor your outfit to the industry. A formal shirt and trousers may work for finance or admin roles, while business casual fits tech or startup environments. When in doubt, it's best to dress slightly more formal than what the role might typically require.
Maintain steady eye contact
Smile genuinely.
First impressions count, and confident body language can speak volumes.
Email yourself PDFs of your resume, certificates, and portfolio samples—or store them on Google Drive or Dropbox. That way, you’ll be ready if asked for a quick share.
Use tools like mock interviews, record your responses, or even get feedback from friends. You can also use AI tools—more on that below.
Specific Interview Advice
Preparing for interviews comes with its own unique considerations:
Power outages are common. Make sure to fully charge your devices the night before and bring a power bank as backup.
Transport delays can be unpredictable in cities. Opt for a reliable ride-hailing service or leave extra early if using public transport.
Dress codes vary between sectors. In conservative industries, modest formalwear is preferred.
For multilingual roles or federal jobs, be ready to discuss how your local language skills or NYSC experience can add value.
Carry extra cash for transport or emergencies. Some companies may not have POS or digital payment options for parking or access fees.
How to Use ChatGPT for Interview Preparation
Wondering how AI can help? Here’s how you can use ChatGPT to supercharge your interview prep:
Practice role-specific mock interview questions to better prepare and boost your confidence.
Improve your resume or cover letter wording
Master the STAR method to structure your answers clearly and effectively.
Brainstorm thoughtful questions to ask interviewers
Research companies and industries in minutes
Pair this with UniAthena's Online Short Courses for targeted skill-building, and you’ll walk into any interview ready to impress.
Interviews are your gateway to new opportunities, so a little extra preparation can go a long way. Use this updated checklist of essential items to bring, follow the best tips for your job interview preparation, and don’t forget, confidence is your best accessory.
For more tools, insights, and interview advice, check out our full blog series, including How To Use ChatGPT For an Interview Preparation. And if you’re looking to level up your skills, explore online short courses; they’re flexible, affordable, and built for modern professionals like you.
Good luck, you’ve got this!
