What Not to Bring to a Job Interview

What you shouldn’t bring to a job interview is important. Believe it or not, there are stories of applicants for internships and entry-level jobs bringing their mom or dad to the interview! Don’t do it. It is both awkward and unprofessional to have a third party in the room.

In fact, it will probably cost you a job offer. You need to be able to interview on your own merits, and the company wants to interview you, not your parent.

Some other interview don’ts:

Don’t chew gum or suck on candy.  Throw out the gum or candy before you enter the office.

Don’t carry in your morning coffee or protein shake.

Don’t walk into the office talking on your phone or texting. Turn off your phone or ringer before you walk into the building. Don’t even have your phone out!!!

Don’t wear a hat or cap, leave it at home.

Don’t overwhelm the interviewer with your piercings or tattoos. If you have a lot of piercings or earrings, take out a majority of them, so they aren’t a distraction (one pair of earrings, is a good rule). Do your best to cover your tattoos.

Don’t put on any strong perfumes or colognes; you never know if someone is allergic in the office.