It’s common to be a little nervous before an interview. You’ll likely go into an unfamiliar setting to meet with the interviewer(s), and there’s no way to guarantee you’ll have the answer ready for every question asked. Yet, you absolutely can and should prepare by doing your research and conducting practice interviews to help ensure you feel confident walking in. Your Career Services office is a good place to go for some interview inspiration.
Another way to feel prepared is to make sure you have everything you need on the day of your interview. Our Interview Preparedness Kit checklist will help you face the unknowns along your journey.
Directions
This may sound silly and even unnecessary, especially if you will be interviewing on campus or somewhere else that’s familiar, but make sure you know where you’re going and give yourself plenty of time to get there. Being on time, or a little ahead of schedule, is always a good thing. Don’t forget to figure out the parking situation as well, if applicable.
A padfolio (armed with your resume and notes)
This useful accessory should include a few extra resumes, notes about your interviewer(s) and their organization, questions you’d like to ask, a notepad, some pens and a list of your references. For the padfolio itself, you’ll want to have something that looks professional and keeps you organized. Your school may give you branded padfolios, or you can check out one from a local or online retailer. It doesn’t need to be high end. Just find something that looks polished.
If you’re unsure where to start when it comes to questions to ask your interviewer, check out this blog that covers everything from your job search to a video with best practices for interviewing as a summer associate.
A good bag
A bag can be a good place to store your cell phone (silenced ahead of time, of course) and/or personal care items for the interview. If you are planning on bringing a bag with you, make sure it aligns with your professional look, whatever that may be. And, remember, this is not a time to make a statement with your fashion.
Seasonal clearance sales are an incredible time to buy an appropriate bag on a budget or check out thrift stores near you as another option. If you are carrying a less structured bag like a tote, a bag organizer can come in handy to easily grab what you need.
Questions
Although you won’t be initiating the conversation, an interview is also your chance to learn about the potential employer. Prepare at least two questions that focus on things that are important to your decision-making process, such as what makes the firm relevant for you and where they see you fitting in for the short and long term.
You should glance at your prepared questions before heading into your interview so they are fresh in your mind. This is preferable to pulling out a piece of paper with your written notes during the interview.
A spare shirt and a stain remover stick
If you are traveling to an interview, think about how you will keep everything clean and free of wrinkles. Accidents happen, and it’s best to be prepared. Trust us, you don’t want to feel uncomfortable in your interview because your morning coffee took a spill on your freshly pressed white shirt.
Other ‘just in case’ items
You likely (and hopefully) won’t need these items but having a few emergency essentials on hand might just save the day. Your emergency kit might include band-aids, deodorant, headache medicine, feminine hygiene products, a backup charger for your (silenced) phone and any other essentials.
Thank you notes and stamped envelopes
The advice is mixed about whether to email a thank you note or send one via snail mail, but regardless of which you do, make sure you ask your interviewers for business cards and take the time to write personalized messages. If you opt for a handwritten note, make sure to choose professional-looking notes — ones with your school’s colors or a monogram can be a fun touch.
A snack
An interview can make for a long day, especially if you have multiple interviews or are going through OCIs. Don’t let your energy level tank or a growling stomach distract you. Bring some on-the-go nutrition, water, and breath mints or gum.
A good pep talk
There is no better time for imposter syndrome to rear its ugly head than when you are walking into a job interview. But remember, you are intelligent and capable and most definitely cut out for this work. Even if you don’t get your dream job during your 1L summer, that does not mean you won’t get your dream job in the future. Your path may end up being a bit unexpected, but you’ll get where you are going, nonetheless.
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