Five Items for Every Interview Day Checklist

Due to increased competition for most job openings, interview preparation is more important than ever. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate hovered at around 7 percent in 2013. In addition to basic interview preparations such as finding your outfit and printing out directions, place these five items on your interview checklist to fully prepare for your interview.

Eat a Nutritious Breakfast

Although many Americans do not eat breakfast, it is extremely important to eat a nutritious meal such as oatmeal, fruits or cold cereal the morning of your interview. This gives you energy for the day and helps you to think clearly and feel alert. It also prevents you from feeling nauseous when the nerves begin to creep up.

Prepare Extra Copies of Your Resume

Even if the employer has your resume on file, bring several extra copies in case the interviewer does not have the document at hand and wishes to reference it during the interview. The same goes for your portfolio and any other documents that the employer requires.

Run Through Possible Interview Questions

Well before the interview, review questions that your interviewer might ask, and practice your answers. Make notes to remind yourself of character traits and stories you want to bring up, and glance at them several times before the interview to better remember them. According to CareerOneStop, a website sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, practicing with another person or in front of a mirror is great interview preparation. It is also important to run through questions you want to ask your potential employer as this shows the interviewer you are proactive and truly interested in the job.

Schedule Personal Time Before the Interview

Although it may be tempting to spend the hours leading up to your interview rehearsing and studying information about the employer, this type of interview-preparation cramming often creates more stress than necessary. Instead, schedule a minimum of 30 minutes of personal time before the interview to calm your nerves. Be sure you do this after you have cleaned up, dressed and prepared your documents. If your interview is far away, look for a coffee shop or park near the interview location, so you do not have to stress about finding the employer.

Conduct a Final Self-appraisal in the Restroom

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early, and head to the nearest restroom for a quick appearance check as your final interview preparation. Check your clothing for lint, hairs, dandruff flakes and store tags, and make sure your hair is neat and your teeth clean. Head to the interview location, arrive approximately five minutes early.

In addition to these interview preparation items, ensure your interview checklist includes preparing for the weather, shining your shoes and ironing your clothes, if necessary. Before the interview day, spend time speaking to past and present employees and researching the company to gain a better idea of what to expect.

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