5 Documents You Shouldn’t Forget When Attending Job Interviews

By Joan Igamba

Getting an interview call means that the employer is excited to meet you.

They are hoping that you will impress them so that they can hire you, to meet whatever needs they have.

With that in mind, mistakes such as disorganization, really make an impression.

Fumbling with that brown envelope in search of a document you know you did not bring, is the wrong first impression.

Preparation is very vital and will send a signal to your interviewer that you are taking the job offer more seriously.

Here are 5 crucial documents you should always ensure you have with you so as to have a shot at securing a job among the current jobs in Kenya.

1. CV

A little obvious but they are some candidates who do not carry their CV while attending the interview.

Could be under the assumption that most companies have gone digital and are paper free but never neglect this document.

You could bring two CVs if you can, in case there is more than one interviewer.

Always ensure you bring a fully updated CV that is similar to what you sent the interviewer beforehand.

2. Academic Certificates

This just offers reassurance and proof to the interviewer that the qualifications you said you have in your CV are real.

Being in possession of all your 8-4-4 certificates will give your interviewers the chance to evaluate you properly.

3. Portfolio/work samples

If you’re in a creative industry—like advertising, journalism, graphic design, architecture, or fashion—you should bring samples of your work that you can give to the interviewer.

You could then offer to send your full portfolio in digital form later on if the interview is promising

Depending on what you do, you may also want to have a sheet that showcases positive feedback you’ve received from past clients on your work.

4. Previous Job offer letter

This is a document that some employers will ask for and others will not need.

However make no excuses for not carrying this crucial document, by having it on your person, in case it is needed.

 5. Professional Course Certificates

In the current job market, competition is very stiff. It is not easy to stand out from other candidates.

One way you can is by showcasing that you acquired certifications in both hard and soft skills.

Carry any such documents with you so as to have an edge over other candidates during the interview.

6. Personal Identification Document

It is unlikely that the employer will need this document this early on in the interview process but you will need it to access the venue of the interview on the day.

Avoid causing a scene at the reception as you sign in by remembering your ID.

In conclusion,

Yes, it’s important to know what to bring to the interview, but as you can probably tell, it’s what you say during the interview that will have the biggest impact. Need some help crafting memorable answers? Speak to our interview coach, Lucy Karwigi, and she will help you through this process. Do not let your lack of preparation cost you your dream job.