Company research prior to an interview is important in making a good first impression and demonstrating sincere interest in the position. Below is a detailed guide on how to research a company:
Understanding the Company’s Basics
Company Website: Begin by investigating the company’s own website, beginning with the “About Us” section in order to learn about their mission, values, and leadership.
Mission and Values: Familiarize yourself with the company’s mission statement and core values to ensure your answers are in line with what motivates the company
Products and Services: Familiarize yourself with the company’s products and services to explain how your skills and experiences will help them achieve success.
Researching Company Culture and Reviews
Employee Reviews: Utilize sites such as Glassdoor and Indeed to read employee reviews of the work culture, management style, and company culture.
Social Media: Look at the social media profiles of the company to understand how they represent themselves and interact with their followers.
Company Culture: Review any content on company culture to find out if it is in line with your work style and values.
Analyzing Financial Performance and Competitors
Financial Reports: Study annual reports, balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements to analyze the financial condition of the company.
Competitor Analysis: Find out who the company’s competitors are and how it is positioned in the market, how it is perceived by the brand, and what customers say.
Market Trends: Get familiar with trends and issues of the industry today.
Additional Research Tips
Recent News and Press Releases: Find the latest about new endeavors, new product releases, or changes in leadership.
Leadership Team: Study major executives, their bios, and how they collaborate.
Industry Reports: Utilize industry reports to learn about the role of the company in the industry and its potential for growth.
Why Research is Important
Demonstrate Interest: By conducting research on the company, you’re demonstrating that you have a true interest in the company and the job.
Prepare Thoughtful Questions: Utilize your research in order to prepare questions that illustrate your interest in the company and position.
Showcase Your Skills: Utilize your research to highlight your skills and experience and how they match the needs of the company.
How to Conduct Research
Company Website: Begin with the company website to gain a general understanding of their products, services, mission, and values.
Social Media: Utilize social media websites to develop an idea of the company culture, values, and tone of voice.
News and Press Releases: Search for recent news and press releases to become informed about the company’s recent events.
Industry Reports: Utilize industry reports to learn about the company’s position in the industry and its potential for growth.
Tips for Effective Research
Use Multiple Sources: Utilize multiple sources to gain a balanced view of the company.
Take Notes: Take notes regarding the company’s mission, values, products, and services.
Organize Your Research: Prepare your research to be easily accessible throughout the interview.
Common Research Mistakes
Not Doing Enough Research: Falling short on your research will make you come off as not being interested in the company or position.
Relying on Outdated Information: Be sure to use fresh information to gain a true perspective of the company.
Not Tailoring Your Research: Tailor your research to the company and position to demonstrate that you are actually interested in the job.
Conclusion
Pre-interview company research is key to making a positive impression and expressing actual interest in the job. By using these suggestions and doing your research well, you are able to express your interest in the company and position, and highlight your skills and experiences.
Additional Resources
Company Websites: Utilize company websites to see how they present their products, services, mission, and values.
Industry Reports: Utilize industry reports to learn about the role of the company in the industry and its prospects for growth.
Social Media: Utilize social media sites to understand the culture, values, and brand voice of the company.
By using these tips and resources, you are able to perform effective research about a company and prepare for an interview that will be a success.
Final Tips
Be Prepared: Be prepared for the interview with questions and facts about the company.
Show Enthusiasm: Demonstrate enthusiasm and interest in the company and position.
Follow Up: Follow up with the interviewer after the interview to thank them and indicate your interest in the position.
By heeding these last tips, you can make a good impression and heighten your success in the interview.
