Don't disregard the little details when going on a job interview.

Your suit is pressed, you’ve rehearsed the interview with your roommate and you’ve got an answer for any question that might come your way. But wait; aren’t you forgetting some very important details?

When going to an interview, it’s important to know there are a few additional things to bring along that will not only help expedite the hiring process but will also make a very positive impression on the individual(s) who will be considering you for employment.

A COPY OF YOUR RESUME

Don’t assume the individual interviewing you will have a copy of the resume you sent to them. Always assume they won’t have it. Maybe their toner ran out, it was misplaced or the new HR intern destroyed it by accident. By having extra copies on hand you’ve already demonstrated yourself as a prepared individual ready for the unexpected.

A LIST OF PERSONAL REFERENCES

Most employers will want a list of personal and professional references from you. As with bringing a copy of your resume, having this ready for them indicates your willingness to be prepared as well as taking the initiative. Have this information ready to hand over right then and there will eliminate any associated snags and/or delays that come with having to get back to them a day or so later with the requested information.

A PEN AND NOTEPAD

Bring along a notepad and pen to jot down important information pertaining to the position you’re seeking as well as the answers to questions you field to the interviewer. Once again, you’ll come across as prepared, it gives the impression you truly value the opportunity by taking notes and you have good ammunition to review and use in the event of a follow up interview.

A BACKGROUND CHECK

Why not show some initiative by bringing along a completed background check on yourself?  You can easily purchase one from IAmScreened.com that can include criminal history as well as previous employment and educational experience.  IAmScreened.com will also generate a username and password for your potential employers to utilize to view your background check online and see for themselves how serious you are about employment with their company.

TRY NOT TO BRING

Although not a comprehensive list, the following are among the top three things you can bring along that can cause trouble during your interview. If you feel weird about something in your pocket, leave it on your kitchen table!

• Cell phones – they have a nasty habit of switching on without you even knowing it. Don’t let one ruin an otherwise good interview with a disastrously timed incoming call or text message.
• Loose change – All that change jingling and jangling in your pocket is just tacky. If it spills out of your pocket when you get up from a sitting position, you’ll feel and look like a goof picking it all up. Leave it in your car or at home in the piggy bank
• Gum – I list this because you’ll no doubt be chewing on some while you’re on your way to the interview or while you’re in the waiting room. Don’t meet your potential employer chewing away. It’s a kiss of death for first impressions.

As with all things in life, little details are what often make or break pivotal events. Just because something seems small or unnoticeable doesn’t mean it’s not vital or important. Keep an eye for the tiny detail and you’ll never lose sight of the big prize.