I have my first in-person panel interview since pre-pandemic.

10 Comments

1. MARI S PHONASA, CPSM & CPSDApril 5,2024 at 8:48PM UTC

   I always bring at least 1-2 copies of my resume in case they forget to bring it with them to the interview. I like to bring a small notebook but only take notes when I need to remember something to include in my Thank You letter afterwards. Best of luck on your interview.

2. Becky LoshApril 5,2024 at 11:29PM UTC

   I would say the in person interview should still be a paper vibe. Bring enough copies of your resume for your interviewers and one for yourself if you need it for reference when answering specific questions about your experience.

   I haven't interviewed in a long time, but would often bring a resume copy and a copy of the job description or posting for myself with my questions to ask so I could take notes as needed. However I don't want that to seem over the top to the interviewers so I always ask them if they mind if I also take notes throughout the interview, assuming that at least one of your interviewers will be taking notes if it's a panel.

3. AnonymousApril 6,2024 at 1:58AM UTC

   When I went, I dressed professionally (suit, as it was a state government job) and took a file with a copy of the application, a cover letter, and a few copies of my resume. The resume was for the panel (if requested) and the other was for me. There were a couple of pieces of paperwork they asked me to fill out and bring with me, so I included them. I also took a notebook to take notes during the interview when I was asking questions.

4. Lomaxruiter@yahoo.comApril 7,2024 at 2:11PM UTC

   I recently interviewed with a panel for a corporate board position. I brought a padfolio with a notepad and two pages of questions I had. Most of the interview was me asking the panel questions.

   Having conducted 100s of interviews over the years, I am always disappointed when the candidates have no questions. Hiring is a two way street—there should be a good vibe/fit on both sides.

   BTW, I start on the board this month.

5. AnonymousApril 7,2024 at 2:49PM UTC

   I have one of those letter sized portfolios/notepad things made of leather. I had a notepad in there with all my questions written down with space for answers, printed copies of my resume on really nice white resume paper (found at staples), and a pen to write with.

   Since you’re meeting a panel, have enough copies of your resume for everyone, plus a couple of extra, just in case.

6. AnonymousApril 7,2024 at 4:39PM UTC

   I would bring whatever is easiest for you for note taking during the interview. I often recommend the laptop because generally typing is faster than hand writing. You can have the job description open as a document on your compute, and also the profiles of the folks you are interviewing with in case you forget their names (nerves). Also you can have it open with notes and your questions for the interviewers, don't forget to draft some as an interview is definitely a 2-way street. You need to gather information from them -timeline, process, job content, management style etc.

   A hard copy of the resume wouldn't hurt but have that in your bag vs out on the table - chances are they have one.

   Business casual attire of course, check the linkedin profiles and their website for guidelines on what works in their culture.

   Good luck!

7. Christi LopezApril 8,2024 at 12:39PM UTC

   I had a panel interview a year ago. I'm a little different because I'm a graphic designer, but I brought my MacBook to show my digital portfolio and websites that I've designed, my hard-copy portfolio, and a notebook with questions. I was able to hook up to the display in the conference room for presenting, but made sure I had adapters in case I needed them.

   As an interviewer on a panel, I'm always impressed when a candidate brings handouts. I, personally, wouldn't bother with copies of the resume because if you've made it to a panel interview, then they've already seen your resume. Instead, bring examples of your work...something that will make you stand out from all the other candidates.

8. AnonymousApril 8,2024 at 1:20PM UTC

   I had an in-person interview last week, with half of the team attending in person and the other half joining via Zoom.
   Yes, I brought hard copies of my resume; however, they already had copies. I brought a pen and notebook, but no laptop because they provided one for me to do my demo. Generally, it's better to have and not need than to need and not have.

9. AnonymousApril 8,2024 at 1:57PM UTC

   I appreciate it when candidates bring their resumes - because usually I don't have time to print it (I am an HRM, I partner with our hiring managers for interviews, and covering multiple locations). If I'm on the interviewing end, I bring my Remarkable - and usually skip bringing my resume.

10. AnonymousApril 8,2024 at 8:07PM UTC

    Thank you everyone! OP here, the interview went GREAT and these replies definitely helped. Vibe was casual and welcoming. I brought hard copies of my resume and the JD, a small notebook/pen, and had my MacBook in my bag just in case. I was one step closer to business formal vs. the business casual of the committee members, which felt appropriate - not costumey. All in all, felt good to be "back." Thankful for this community!