Top tips on what essential things you should take to your next job interview, as well as a few things that you should not bring, to ensure that you are thoroughly prepared.

1. ABOUT CORE-ASSET CONSULTING
Core-Asset Consulting is a specialist recruitment
company dedicated to financial and professional
services in Scotland.
CORE-ASSET CONSULTING
37 Melville Street
Edinburgh
EH3 7JF
w: core-asset.co.uk
e: edinburgh@core-asset.co.uk
t: +44 (0)131 718 4600
What to Take to a Job Interview
(and What to Leave at Home)
01
DIRECTIONS
Aim to arrive 10 -15 mins early. Take a
screenshot of the directions on your phone
or even print out a copy. Have the contact
details of the interviewer so you can reach
them in case of an emergency.
01
PHONE
There is nothing more distracting than
hearing a phone ring during an important
conversation. Keep your phone turned off
- ideally before you enter the building -
and hidden away in your bag or pocket.
03
SHOPPING
Unfortunately, turning up with shopping
bags will not impress your interviewer.
Leave them in your car if possible or
leave shopping until after the interview.
08
ENTHUSIASM
Create a positive impression by smiling
and showing enthusiasm for the role
and the company. This will help you
come across as friendly, personable and
engaged.
07
QUESTIONS
Your not there just to answer questions.
Asking great questions could improve your
chances. The right questions demonstrate
you’ve done your research and you are
passionate about the opportunity.
02
FOOD & DRINK
Don’t bring in your takeaway coffee,
or even worse, your lunch! It will be
distracting and may leave the interviewer
with a negative impression.
02
WATER
Nerves can cause a dry throat, so it never
hurts to bring your own water. A sip of
water can also buy you thinking time on
a tricky question. If you feel flustered it
could prove invaluable.
03
NOTEPAD & PEN
Don’t read off your notes, but have some
key points written down - you’ll feel
calmer. You can also jot down important
info, such as details about the role or the
rest of the recruitment process.
04
CV COPIES
It might happen that your interviewer
does not have a copy of your CV. In this
situation, taking extra copies allows you
to show your interviewer that you are
organised and proactive.
06
DOCUMENTATION
Bring requested documents with you to
the interview, such as a photo ID, your
passport or evidence of your right to work
in the UK. Bring the original documents
as well as photocopies to leave behind.
05
PORTFOLIO
Crucial if you are interviewing for a
position which involves creating visuals or
writing content. Displaying your best work
will set you apart from other candidates by
providing tangible evidence of your skills.