9 Resume Folders That Make a Great First Impression

Whether you’re dropping off a resume at a prospective employer or arriving for your interview, it’s important to make a great first impression. You’ve done the hard work in putting together your resume and shining your shoes to present yourself in the best light. But what do you do with that freshly printed resume? An estimated 40% of hiring managers spend less than 60 seconds reviewing each resume they receive, and if you think that’s bad, 25% spend less than 30 seconds. It’s more important than ever to utilize that short window of time to make your resume stand out from the crowd. We’ve done the work for you and picked out resume folders & padfolios that go the extra mile and show that you are the detail-oriented worker that every employer is seeking. What do you want your accessories to say about you?

The Sparco Simulated Leather Pocket Folders are a great option for dropping off a resume that won’t get lost in the shuffle. The dark blue color coupled with the look of leather will give the professional appearance we are all aiming for when trying to land our dream job. The inside pocket contains a business card holder so you can show off further if you have cards handy. Additionally, the leather is simulated and the folder is recycled so you won’t offend anyone along the way. These resume folders come in at about a quarter a pop, so you don’t have to think twice about parting ways with them or breaking the bank in the process. All of these qualities make the Sparco Simulated Leather Folders a great option for recent grads on a budget or those who are passing out multiple resumes at a job fair.

Want to class it up with genuine leather? Need to bring a pen and paper? Taking along a multimedia option in the form of a iPad or CD? This Samsill Regal Pocket Zipper Binder really has it all. We all want to be prepared for anything that might be tossed our way during an interview. This binder crossover can hold all of your important items and presents itself like a stylish modern-day briefcase.

Many interviewers want to see genuine interest & effort from job candidates. This binder is great for stowing away notes on questions to ask your interviewer. This shows that you are taking the opportunity seriously and have done your homework. Not to mention they’re eye catching resume folders. If you are having trouble coming up with questions to ask your interviewer, a simple Google search will present some great options like this list of questions. Just like you, this zippered binder will prove to be professional & versatile.

Not all corporate jobs are stuffy. As millennials & gen z workers rise in the workforce, it’s not surprising to see that startup culture is becoming more prevalent. These environments encourage you to show off your personality as opposed to trying to fit in with the suits. These C-Line Two-Tone Two-Pocket Poly Portfolios boast a serious pop of neon color upon opening. If you are applying for a job that encourages you to be show your fun side and be unapologetically yourself, these are the resume folders for you. As inspired by Apple, don’t be afraid to “Think Different”.

Every job is unique and it’s important to consider your market when deciding on the right storage space for your resume and additional materials. While a clipboard might not be the right pick for a desk job, it’s an essential for jobs on the move. If you’re strolling into an interview or training session that keeps you on your feet, the Cardinal Business Clip Pad Holder is the choice for you. The brass finished clip adds a dash of class that sets it apart from most of the blah storage clipboards on the market. These clip pad folders are great for architectural project managers, event planners, market researchers, and so much more. The list goes on. After all, you don’t need to be a benched NFL player to hold a clipboard.

The Samsill Vintage Hardback Zipper Portfolio is a personal favorite because of the upscale vintage style it exudes. The dark brown portfolio draws a second glance and adds a level of curiosity that makes potential employers want to get to know you. Although the vintage portfolio is reminiscent of the rustic leather journal of a writer, it is widely popular in various lines of work. These Samsill resume folders are extensively used by legal, medical, law enforcement, and business executive professionals.

Add a dash of style that compliments your outfit with the C-line Modern Metallic Executive Style Report Cover. The bronze color and unique textured finish gives off a chic vibe while still being professional and appropriate for any job. This option is slim and perfect for handing over a resume. The swing clip is contemporary and can hold up to 25 pages to accommodate not just a resume, but any other additional resources you want to sneak in now that you’ve made it into the interview chair. The metallic folder is perfect for a fashion, beauty or luxury brand that appreciates the finer things.

As you may already know, Shoplet has a big crush on Mother Earth. The Acco PRESSTEX® Report Covers are perfect for like-minded professionals that love all things eco-friendly. In addition to the shade being green, the item is too. The report covers are made of 60% recycled content and reviewers agree that they are sturdy and reliable. These are a great pick for applicants that are trying to get their foot in the door of a company with a conscience. While saying you care matters, showing you care by making responsible choices is what really makes a difference. Keep these Acco Presstex Report Covers top of mind when applying for non-profits & green companies.

Most people review their resume countless times to check for errors or potential optimizations. Many print off multiple copies to bring along to an interview in preparation for meeting more than one employee of the company. The elite few think about the quality of paper they are printing their resume on. Whether you trying to show off your swanky cotton paper, or you’re just insanely proud of your job experience, these Oxford Clear Front Report Covers let your resume speak for yourself. These are a great value and don’t distract from what really matters most throughout the interview process — you!

Any Buxton fans out there? We hear you. This Buxton Executive Leather Padfolio shows you mean business. No frills, just quality. The cover is made up of 100% genuine leather and has a sleek black look that will never go out of style. After you land the job, you’ll be able to use this for business trips, meetings, conferences, and whatever else your career throws your way.

Now that you have done all the hard work on your resume, chosen the right paper and selected a folder that helps you put your best foot forward it’s’ time to review some tips for the interview. Remember that the interview really starts before you sit town with the person who is going to decide if you will fit into their organization so be prepared beforehand.

• Research the organization and the person you will be meeting. A quick Google check will allow you to understand what the organization does and what they are trying to achieve. Read any available press releases or peruse social networking sites so you know the latest news or initiatives. LinkedIn can also help you get to know the interviewer and learn about their credentials. It’s always helpful if to identify a shared mission or experiences that you have in common. This can make conversation easier or more memorable so you stand out amongst potential candidates..
• Dress for success but do not over do it. Dress appropriately for the part. What is most important is that your clothes are clean, pressed and put together. An interview is not the place to wear your favorite comfy scuffed shoes, your lucky hat or clothing and items that make political statements. Also, remember that many people have allergies so do not overdo perfume, cologne or hair gel. You don’t want the interviewer to be forced to cut the interview short.
• Be Early. Show that you are responsible, professional and eager to be there. Don’t be just on time — be a little early. Call ahead if anything occurs that may cause you to be delayed so that the interviewer is not left waiting for you. Being courteous counts.
• Make a good impression before the interview. Be kind to everyone you meet. Anyone who works at the company is in a position to have an opinion of you and your ability to fit into the organization. A successful company hires the best people to represent them regardless of position. Many receptionists have been asked to give their impressions of those waiting before the interview. Be friendly and don’t blow it before the interview begins.
• Free up your hands for the handshake. Turn your phone off and put it away before the interview & be the first to offer your hand. Your handshake should be firm but not gripping and you shouldn’t be juggling any non-essential items. Aside from your resume, which is hopefully presented in an organized and professional manner, umbrellas, coffee cups, phones, water bottles, newspapers or anything else that can be a distraction should be left outside. You will need a free hand to make the introduction.
• Stay calm and make a connection. Remember to make eye contact and smile. It’s the job of the interviewer to ask the questions that will enable them to judge if you you have the right experience, attitude, aptitude or temperament for the job but it’s also important for you to ascertain if the company is a good fit for you. Be part of the conversation. You might ask the interviewer how long they have worked for the company or what they like most about the their job. Inquiries like these can give you a good idea of what a day at work would be like. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and to show that you are interested & eager to collaborate.

Good luck out there!