How to Research a Company for a Job Search
Before you land that dream job, research industry trends and the prospective company, so you can anticipate possible interview questions. The more you learn about a company, the greater your chances are of blowing away the competition. Do more than just a basic online search of the company's name. Look into sources that give you insight into the company's culture and expectations. Researching before an interview shows a potential employer that you are resourceful and prepared to work for them.
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Instructions
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Visit the official website of the company. Observe the site's tone, the socioeconomic group and age range that it appeals to most. Take notes on the corporate climate and look for biographies of the any business partners linked on the site. Pay attention closely to words or keywords that are repeated throughout the website and use them to describe your ideal job and working environment in your interview.
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Check the company's stock. Track trends in the industry and note how the competition is doing in the market financially. Look for sharp drops or rapid growth in the price of stocks. Use this information in an interview to mention how if hired, you would contribute to the company's profitability and give specific examples.
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Review the products and services developed or offered by the company. Test out the products in a store and read reviews in trade publications and newspapers before an interview. Visit your local library to find information in archived publications for further research.
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Get all relevant information regarding the position and duties from the job posting. Search through company blogs to find reputable employees that offer insight into the working environment. Similarly, look through job board discussion forums and job networking websites for advice related to your particular industry. .
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Contact acquaintances or friends that work for the company and ask them questions. Ask them for insider information about the staff, corporate climate and special projects. Find out if you and the interviewer have any shared interests and hobbies you could introduce at the interview to make yourself more memorable.
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Tips & Warnings
If given a chance to interview with a company, be prepared to answer questions about your qualifications as well as to ask questions pertaining to the company itself.
Employers do background checks on potential employees; don't be hesitant to do your own on the company. Keep an eye out for information that leads to unethical or illegal information related to the company before accepting an interview or job offer.
