We are currently in the progress of building our job interview FAQ.  If you have a questions about interviews and cannot find the answer on another part of this site, then feel free to send a question to

We will try to respond as soon as possible and many of the questions will eventually be answered on this page.

Interview FAQ's

1. Can a company do a background check and what should I expect?

A.  It is becoming more common that companies will request a formal background check. They must obtain your permission before doing so and they will usually request that you fill out an authorization form.  Typically, the background check will include criminal records, court records, driving records and credit history.  You have the right to deny authorization, however this can be viewed as a warning sign to the employer. Usually, if the employer requests this information, they will go over it with you and you will have the ability to explain any questionable instances.

2.  Where can I find good information about the company I am interviewing with?

A. Thank the Internet for helping with this one. It used to be a lot more painful.  Most of the time you can find quality information, by searching for the company on the web and visiting their company site.  If the company is public, check out sites like Rueters.com or check major news sites for recent articles.  Smaller companies will be more difficult, so sometimes its just a matter of asking around if you have a network of contacts.  You may even be able to anonymously call the company and get valuable information out of the administrative assistants.  Otherwise, you can search for publications at the library or bookstore.

3.  What should I bring to a job interview?

Depending on the specific job, you may need to bring more items than other people in different career fields.  A graphic designer may need to bring a portfolio or an architect may need to bring sample blueprints.  But for the general job seeker, you should bring at least: 

Several copies of your resume and cover letter (5-10 in a one on one interview and maybe up to 20 if you are doing a group interview). If the company has to make copies of your resume, then you come off as being unprepared.  Also bring any supporting documents such as certifications, licenses, or letters of recommendation.  Entry level professionals should bring a copy of their degree.  

Bring a few nice pens. Make sure to have a spare in case one runs out of ink or stops working. Do not bring a plastic bic or generic pen. Of course a nice letter pad to write with is a must.  You can get a portfolio holder at the office store than can neatly hold your documents with a place to hold a notepad.  If you are prepared, you will have a list of questions to ask the interviewer.  If you can swing it, its always nice to pack up your materials in a good looking briefcase.

Always bring your drivers license or state ID, just in case you accept an offer and get rolling on the paperwork.  They may request a copy for a background check.

4.  Should I eat before a job interview?

You know your body better than anyone else.  If you get nervous, you may not want a belly full of food in your system to upset your stomach.  Do not eat anything that you know sometimes causes indigestion.  Do not eat a filling meal as that will make you sluggish and tired.  At the same time, don't go the whole day without eating and then show up to the interview with no energy, a light head and a growling stomach.  A light snack before the interview is usually a good idea.

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