Ace Your Interview: The Do's and Don'ts of Bringing Notes

Bringing Notes to a Job Interview: Is It Acceptable?

Walking into a job interview well-prepared is essential for success. Many candidates rehearse potential answers to common questions to feel more confident. A frequent question arises: Is it acceptable to bring notes to an interview?

The answer is generally yes. Alongside extra copies of your resume, having a list of questions or talking points is perfectly acceptable. Below, we'll explore what types of notes are appropriate for an interview and what information you should commit to memory beforehand.

What Kind of Notes Can You Bring?

Questions

One of the most helpful things you can bring to a job interview is a list of thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. This indicates that you've researched the company and are genuinely interested. Review the company's website for their mission statement and values. Asking about the company's history and future plans is also a good approach. Bringing specific questions related to the job description is also a great idea. However, it’s often best to save these for later in the interview, as many of them may be answered during the conversation.

Copies of Your Resume

You should always have copies of your resume on hand for job interviews. While the interviewer will likely have one, it's wise to be prepared. You can also use your resume as a reference during the interview. When answering questions about your skills and experience, consulting your resume can help you recall important details and ensure you don't omit key accomplishments.

Notes to Avoid Bringing

Prepared Answers

It's generally not advisable to bring pre-written answers to interview questions. Interviewers are looking for a natural conversation. While preparing answers beforehand is beneficial, avoid writing them down verbatim and bringing those notes. Instead, practice answering common interview questions to boost your confidence.

Company Information

Prior to your interview, dedicate time to researching the company. Check for recent news articles or press releases to gain a solid understanding of the organization and the role. Bringing notes or printed articles about the company to the interview could be perceived negatively.

Advice on Taking Notes During the Interview

Bringing a notebook to a job interview is generally considered acceptable. It's a good idea to ask the interviewer for permission before you begin taking notes. If they approve, ensure that you remain engaged throughout the conversation. Provide thoughtful answers to each question, and try to keep your note-taking brief, focusing primarily on the interviewer.

Recording follow-up interview dates and times is a practical use of note-taking. You can also jot down the names and titles of individuals you meet at the company. Before you leave, be sure to obtain the interviewer's contact information so you can send a thank-you note. If they don't offer a business card, make sure to write down their details.

Sometimes, the interviewer might ask you to complete a project as a follow-up. If you're interviewing for a creative position, you may be asked to complete an assignment. Individuals in creative roles should always bring a notebook to their interviews to record important information for future reference. Sales professionals, in particular, are often required to deliver a presentation. In these situations, bringing notes is entirely acceptable. Otherwise, limit your note-taking to the suggestions above to demonstrate that you're a top candidate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of notes are appropriate to bring to a job interview?

It's appropriate to bring notes that include questions for the interviewer, key points about your qualifications, and brief reminders of topics you want to discuss. Ensure your notes are concise and well-organized to avoid looking unprepared or overly reliant on them during the interview.

How should I reference my notes during an interview without seeming disengaged?

Use your notes sparingly and discreetly. Glance down briefly to jog your memory or to ensure you're covering all the points you intended to mention. Always maintain eye contact with the interviewer as much as possible to stay engaged in the conversation.

Can bringing notes to an interview leave a negative impression on the interviewer?

Not if done correctly. Bringing notes can actually show that you are prepared and serious about the position. However, relying too heavily on your notes or reading from them can be perceived negatively. Use them as a reference rather than a script to avoid giving the impression that you're not confident or capable of speaking about your experience and qualifications off the cuff.