Your Interview Checklist: It’s Not What You Bring, It’s How You Show Up

We often get asked what you need to bring to an interview. The answer is surprisingly simple: not much. The real focus shouldn't be on the documents in your folder, but on the way you present yourself. An interview is, for all intents and purposes, a sales meeting. You are there for one reason: to sell yourself for the role you’re applying for.

Think about it. If you were in a sales team going to pitch a potential client, what would you take? You’d bring the essentials, but your primary tool would be your preparation, your knowledge, and your confidence. The same logic applies here.

The Physical Essentials (or Lack Thereof)

The only key document you should have on hand is your CV. Other than that, you don't need a great deal. The true assets you bring aren't on paper. They are your knowledge of the role, your understanding of the business, and your own personality. You need to take your whole self into that room, so make sure you’re pumped up and ready to engage.

Dressing the Part:

How you dress is a critical part of your pitch. We seem to live in an age where people think it's okay to pitch up to an interview in jeans and a t-shirt. While that might be acceptable for an employee with a five-year track record, turning up to a first-impression meeting like that wouldn't be my counsel.

Maybe I’m a little old-fashioned, but I believe in dressing smartly. My rule of thumb is this: it’s always better to dress one level above the company’s standard rather than one level below.

So, how do you figure out what that standard is?

1. Do your research. Look into the organisation’s culture.

2. Conduct reconnaissance. Do a couple of flybys of their office to see what people who work there actually wear on a day-to-day basis.

3. Just ask. When setting up the interview, you can ask your point of contact about the typical office dress code.

Once you have a baseline, either mirror that or go one level smarter. At the very least, wear a collar. You could wear a jumper on top or, if it’s not a full suits-and-ties scenario, a nice casual jacket is a good call. Crucially, wear a pair of shoes rather than trainers.

Trust me, no one is going to think you're overdressed for the occasion. It’s about showing you’re serious and respectful of the opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What should I physically bring with me to an interview? A: The main thing to take is your CV. Other than that, not a great deal is needed. The focus should be on bringing your knowledge and your whole self.

Q: What is the best way to think about an interview? A: You should think of it as a sales meeting where you are the product. You are going along to sell yourself for the role you’re applying for.

Q: How should I decide what to wear to an interview? A: The key is to dress smartly. A good rule is to figure out what employees at the company typically wear and then dress one level above that standard. It’s better to be seen as slightly overdressed than underdressed.

Q: Is it ever acceptable to wear jeans and a t-shirt to an interview? A: While this attire might be fine for an established employee, it is not recommended for an interview. To make the right impression, you should opt for smarter clothing.

Q: What are some specific tips for smart interview attire? A: At the very least, wear a collar. A jumper over your shirt or a nice casual jacket are good options if a full suit isn't required. Always choose shoes over trainers.