How Can I Research A Company Prior To Interview?

Preparing thoroughly for a job interview involves far more than being competent in responding to common questions and one of the most critical steps is to research the company beforehand, as I have touched upon in previous articles. Sound knowledge of the company can help enormously in tailoring your answers appropriately and to be able to ask insightful questions as well as demonstrating your enthusiasm for the job!

There are a number of ways in which you can research a company before your job interview and I would firstly recommend that you visit the company’s website. There will usually be an ‘About Us’ section which should help you to understand their mission, values and the history of the company. Take a look at the recent news, updates and any press releases which will help you stay informed about the company’s latest achievements and any ongoing or forthcoming projects. Pay attention to the products or services that the company offers in order to gain a clear understanding on what exactly it is they are offering and to also arm yourself with knowledge on what their unique selling points are. You may even be able to see on the website, some of the staff who already work there and what their roles entail which may give a good inclination on the type of individual who is often hired within the company.

Research the industry in which the company operates which can include understanding current market trends, key players and various challenges that the industry can encounter. Having a broader understanding of the industry shows that you are well prepared and genuinely interested in this specific field.

You may even wish to go one step further and review the company’s financial performance which can then give you a good idea regarding their economic health. Sometimes the latest annual reports including some financial statements may be available to view. This prior knowledge can be extremely beneficial if you are applying for a role that will have an impact on the company’s overall finances.

Many companies are already harnessing the benefits of having strong social media presences on platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter in which they share updates and engage with their audience. Following these can provide you with real time insights into what the company is all about. Read any blogs or articles that are readily available as these can offer even deeper perspectives on their operations and thought leadership. Additionally, networking with former or current employees can help you understand what qualities the company values regarding employees and what you can expect if you join the company.

Read company reviews as these can provide a behind the scenes glimpse into the company’s culture, management style, general working environment and how employees are treated. Of course, not all reviews are honest or unbiased but in general, you should see an overall pattern which will help you gain more insight.

Once you have completed your research, prepare specific questions to ask during your interview. The questions should reflect your understanding of the company and industry. Thoughtful and interesting questions will demonstrate your interest and should make a strong impression on the interviewer. In addition, preparing yourself adequately for the interview by gaining prior knowledge will boost your confidence and set you apart from other applicants!