Expect The Best But Prepare For The Worst - Emergency Interview Kit

Be ready for anything on interview day by putting together an "Interview Emergency Kit." In the event that you forget something for your interview, get a stain on your clothes or get a bad headache, you'll be ready to advert disaster and remain relaxed for your big meeting. After spending weeks, maybe months, landing the interview, you'd hate to make a less-than-quality impression when something goes wrong.

Depending on the length and location of your interview, you can put together some supplies to keep everything running smoothly during this employment seeking mission. From simply stashing a bottle of aspirin and breath mints in your purse to packing extra resumes, spare clothing and a map in your luggage, you can make sure all of your bases are covered with an interview emergency kit.

For grooming issues, pack a small zip-top bag with the following essentials and keep stashed away in your purse, briefcase or in a tote bag in the car. Items to include are breath mints, a small mirror, a comb, eye drops, toothbrush and aspirin. If you are prone to excess perspiration, a travel-sized bottle of baby powder and a small stick of anti-perspirant/deodorant will help keep your dry.

For clothing issues, it is best to do a trial run the day before your interview or before you leave for out of town. Make sure everything fits, is wrinkle-free and zippers, buttons, clasps are all working. Pack a small bag with a travel sewing kit, pre-treated stain wipes, clear nail polish to stop hosiery runs, a lint roller, and an aerosol can of wrinkle release to get the creases out of suitcase folded clothes. Also, bring along an umbrella in case a storm blows in.

Information problems can be kept at bay by double checking all the details before interview day. For example, drive to the interview location a few days earlier to determine location, drive time, and any problem areas on the road at the specified time of day. Also, figure out where you will park, how much it will cost and how long it will take to walk to the building. Bring a cell phone in case you need to look up any last minute information or make a phone call to the employer. Also bring extra copies of your resume and business cards, this way the hiring managers can have nice, fresh copies on quality paper.