What to bring to a job interview: A teen’s guide to interview success

Modak
July 18, 2025

Main takeaways

📄 Bringing the right items to your interview shows you're organized, responsible, and ready to work.

🧠 Small details—like having a pen or knowing your interviewer’s name—can set you apart.

💬 Confidence, courtesy, and clarity are the keys to making a great first impression.

If you’re a teen preparing for your first job interview, you might be asking yourself, what to bring to a job interview? Knowing exactly what to take on your interview can help you stay calm, organized, and ready to impress.

This teen-friendly guide covers all the essentials you need to bring to your interview, plus important tips to help you make a great impression. We’ll also show you how Modak can help you get paid for your first job, manage your money easily, and even earn extra cash with fun challenges.

Why knowing what to bring to an interview matters for teens 🙋🏻‍♀️

Showing up prepared to an interview is one of the easiest ways to stand out. Bringing the right things shows that you’re responsible, serious about the job, and ready to work.

Wondering what should you bring to an interview? Here’s your go-to list.

Close up portafolio picture

What to bring to interview: teen essentials checklist

Make sure you pack these items for your job interview:

1. Several copies of your resume 📄

Even if you emailed your resume, bring about 3 to 5 printed copies on clean paper. It looks professional and shows you’re ready.

2. Pen and notebook 📝

Bring a pen to fill out forms or take notes. Writing down important info or questions shows you’re interested and prepared.

3. Photo ID 🪪

You may be asked to show ID, so bring your school ID or driver’s license if you have one.

4. List of references 👥

Have a list of adults like teachers, coaches, or previous employers who can vouch for you, with their contact info.

5. Directions and contact info 🏙️

Bring the interview location address and interviewer’s name and phone number—just in case you get lost or need to call.

6. Portfolio or work samples (if relevant) 🧳

If you have school projects, artwork, or certificates related to the job, bring them to showcase your skills.

7. Breath mints (optional) 🍬

Keep your breath fresh for a confident first impression.

Pen and paper

What not to bring to an interview

  • Your phone (keep it on silent or off)
  • Food or drinks
  • Loud or distracting accessories
  • Anything unrelated to the job

First job? Modak’s got your back

💸 Teens can get their first paycheck deposited directly into their Modak account—no monthly fees4, no hassle.

💳 The Modak Visa® debit card1 lets teens spend responsibly, track their money, and build financial habits from day one.

🎯 With Modak, teens can earn MBX rewards2 for completing money challenges, making their job income go even further.

Start your financial journey now!

Everything you need, fast, safe and simple.

The 3 C’s every teen should remember when interviewing

  • Confidence: Believe in yourself and your skills.
  • Courtesy: Be polite and respectful to everyone you meet.
  • Clarity: Speak clearly and listen carefully.

How Modak helps teens get paid and manage their first job

Getting paid for your first job is exciting! With Modak, teens can open a bank account with no monthly fees4 and get paid directly to their Modak account. You’ll also get a Visa® debit card to spend your money anywhere Visa® is accepted  .

Besides helping you get paid, Modak rewards you with MBX points for healthy habits like walking daily and completing financial quizzes. You can turn MBX points into pocket money — earning up to $8 per week while learning about managing your finances2.

Modak boy holding

Modak makes it easy for teens to start their money journey alongside working their first job.

FAQs: What to bring to a job interview for teens

Is there anything I should bring to a job interview?

Yes! Bring your resume, pen and notebook, photo ID, references, and any work samples.

What should candidates bring to an interview?

Candidates should bring items that show they’re prepared: resumes, IDs, contact info, and relevant documents.

What are the 3 C's of interviewing?

Confidence, Courtesy, and Clarity — the keys to a great interview.

What documents do I need to bring for an interview?

Bring your resume, photo ID, references list, and any relevant work or school samples.

Final tips for teens to nail the interview 🤓

  • Dress neatly and appropriately for the job.
  • Practice common interview questions with a friend or family member.
  • Arrive at least 10 minutes early.
  • Bring all your essentials from this checklist.

With these tips and your Modak account ready, you’ll walk into your interview feeling prepared and confident—and ready to manage your first paycheck smartly.

This article is meant to guide and support you, but it doesn’t guarantee any specific outcome. Every interview and job experience is different, so use this as a starting point and trust yourself along the way!

  1. Deposit account and the Modak Visa® debit card issued by Legend Bank, N.A., FDIC-Insured. Funds deposited into a Deposit Account may be eligible for up to $250,000 of FDIC insurance.The FDIC’s deposit insurance coverage only protects against the failure of an FDIC-insured depository institution.
  2. 100 MBX = $1(as of June 2024). This is an approximation and not a guaranteed result. For more information on MBX, visit: Click here for more information on MBX
  3. Walking 5,000 steps a day gives users 10MBX (as of June 2024). This is subject to change at Modak’s discretion
  4. Fees for expedited or premium services may apply. Find out more in our Cardholder agreement.
  5. By clicking the link, you understand that you’re leaving Modak Makers and heading to an external site we don’t operate. We’re not responsible for its content or policies and don’t represent you or the site in any transactions. Please review their privacy and security terms.

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