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Research Potential Employers

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There are two reasons why you should research companies in your field of interest before you start looking for a job. First, it is a great way to help you decide whether it is an employer you want to work for. Second, it is an effective way you learn more about particular companies you are considering working for.

Researching potential employers can be time-consuming. To use your time more effectively, you can divide your research into two phases:

  1. Gather only basic information about different company
  2. Gather detail information about each company you are interviewing with

What to look for

Here is a list of basic information that you know about each company:

  • Company name, address, phone and fax numbers
  • Name and job title of key personnel
  • Company type, whether it is a public listed company or private owned company
  • Products and services
  • Year of incorporation
  • Number of employee
As you start schedule your job interviews, you need to gather more detailed information about each company that you are interviewing with. Your goal is to be able to speak in an informed way about the company. You need to know:
  • Company’s products
  • Type of customers
  • Subsidiaries
  • Parent companies
  • Principal locations
  • Market share in the industry
  • Main competitors of the company
  • Financial performance
  • Current plan of the company

Where to look

There are many sources that have information about employers. These sources include:

  • Employer websites.
  • Annual reports, employer newsletters, brochures, advertisements
  • Current newspapers, trade journals, and business magazines
  • Industry Specific directory
  • Libraries
  • People
  • Professional Associations
To find the information you need, you will have to use every resources you can find. Most of these listed resources can be found at your local library. Ask the help from librarian to locate many directories that list basic information about companies that you are researching. You can also go directly to the source. You can call the investor-relation department, or human resource department, or sale office, or PR office to get the information you need. Most companies will send you the information requested.

Use all of your research to develop educated, informed opinion. You will appear more knowledgeable if you are able to exchange ideas and create interesting conversation. You will definitely make a positive impression on the interviewer by speaking in an informed way about the company.