An interview offer with your first-choice co-op employer can leave you on an adrenaline-filled, confidence-boosting high. Once you snap back to reality, it’s all business. You’ll meticulously put together the perfect outfit. You’ll think hard about your strengths, weaknesses and goals. You’ll even read up on what not to do in an interview.
One thing that may slip your mind is what to physically bring to the interview. Whether you like it or not, appearances do matter. Digging through your disorganized tote bag for a pen, resume, or notepad will make you look unprepared—not the impression you want to give to a prospective employer.  Â
The following essentials will help you be prepared and look prepared for your interview.
The company’s contact information
Don’t leave your apartment without the company’s address and phone number. You should never be late to an interview, but having this information on hand will make you prepared for any unexpected circumstances. Consider printing out directions and a map if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
Names of the people that set up the interview
If the situation calls for it, impress your interviewers by remembering the names of people you talked to while setting up the interview. You’ll win brownie points for being attentive and respectful to those you come in contact with at the company—from the human resources coordinator up to the department director.
A sophisticated handbag
A simple, sturdy handbag with interior pockets will make you look sophisticated and organized. Avoid slouchy bags and anything with excessive tassels, rhinestones or studs. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t show off a little bit of style; check out this Cooperative Heavy Lock Closure Satchel from Urban Outfitters ($59). This article offers more chic options.
Cell phone
Some will tell you to forget the cell phone altogether, but it’s a safe tool to have in case you are running late (not that you should be!), or even if you just want to call your parents after the interview. Don’t forget to turn it off during the interview.
Your grooming kit
Whether its windblown hair, smudged makeup or coffee breath, a quick grooming session before your interview will help you feel confident. Throw in a compact, powder concealer, small comb, chapstick, breath mints, and tissues in a little pouch like this one from 1154 Lill Studio ($32).
Legal pad holder
This is a great tool for any professional. It securely holds loose paper on the left side and has a notepad on the right, keeping your documents within easy reach and safe from crinkling. Show off your school pride with the legal pad holders from the bookstore on campus, which have the Northeastern University seal on the cover ($19.98 – $34.98).
Your wallet… the compact version
You can do without your full-size wallet for the co-op interview. Bring your Charlie Card, ID, credit card, and cash in case you are runnipng late and need to grab a cab. This Floral Engraved ID Case from Forever 21 ($4.50) is the perfect size to carry everything you need.
A pen that works
A no-brainer. Bring your own pen that won’t jam up when you’re jotting down notes. If you have a habit of biting pens, make sure the one you bring is clean and bite mark-free.
Resume
Your interviewers should have your resume at the interview, but print a few copies on nice paper just in case. It takes up almost no space in a pad holder, and your interviewers will appreciate your diligence.
List of references
Have a list of references ready in case your interviewer asks for one. You don’t want to leave them waiting by e-mailing it to them later. Â
Work samples
Depending on the field you’re in, you may be asked to bring work samples to the interview. The solution can be as simple as printed copies of articles, photographs or illustrations, but don’t sell yourself short. A professionally printed and bound portfolio will help showcase your creative skills even further. Lulu offers custom portfolio books for as little as $9.99.
A copy of the job description
Keep a copy of the job description with you so you can review it in the waiting room. Make notes about anything that seems unclear, and don’t be shy to ask them to clarify something. It’ll show that you are serious about the job.
Questions and answers
Arm yourself with answers to common interview questions, and don’t forget to think of some questions to ask your interviewers. Jot them down in your notepad and study them while you’re in the waiting room. You’ll feel prepared for anything they throw at you.
Business Cards
If you have a strong social media presence or don’t have a physical portfolio to leave behind, then business cards are the best tools to show off your skills. These business cards from Moo ($21.99 for 50 cards) are pre-designed and easy to fill in with all of your contact information. You can even upload your own artwork or photography to create mini-cards, also by Moo ($19.99 for 100 cards).