Don’t judge a book by its cover. Before you apply, network, or interview for a company, it’s smart to do some research. Just as a recruiter is going to review your resume and online presence, you should do the same. Here are just a couple of reasons why and how you should conduct company research.
Are we a good match?
Think of researching a company like dating. I know it’s cheesy but hear me out. The purpose of dating is to figure out if someone would be a great match. And we all know this is not going to happen while sitting on the couch but by learning more about them. This same idea applies to internship/job searching. The only way to figure out if a job or internship opportunity is right for you is by diving deeper into a company and learning details such as their values and goals.
Ask yourself, what are you looking for in a company? For example, if you are passionate about the environment, then it would be wise to see if a company has aligning interests. This would include finding a company that is environmentally conscious and that are taking steps to reduce their environmental footprint. The same goes for if you care about giving back community, making technological advancements, or working for a market leader.
Where to look?
There are so many different ways to learn more about a company. It can be as easy as a quick google. You can visit company websites and look for an “About Us” tab or “History” tab to learn a brief overview of the company. While on a company website, you should also become familiar with the goods or services they offer. This is because it is always smart to have a basic understanding of companies you are communicating with before attending career fairs or interviews.
Press releases are another great tool to use to find up-to-date information about a company. The purpose of press releases to inform the public of relevant information and events that are occurring. Through press releases, you can learn about financial reports, fundraisers companies are partaking in, and new product launches. Social media is another great media outlet. Platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook allow companies to not only inform but also interact with the public. Researching companies through their website, press releases, and social media accounts are just a few ways to become more educated and informed.
What questions do you have for us?
So besides for your own curiously, why should you research a company? At the end of an interview or career fair conversation, the last question a recruiter may ask is, “Do you have any questions for me?” This question provides a great opportunity to show your commitment and interest in that company or position. You can impress the recruiter by asking about new launching products, rebranding, or new research programs.
Whether you are a freshman looking for your first internship opportunity or a senior looking for that first job after college, it is always important to do your research. By being prepared and coming with questions, you are setting yourself for success!
Want to learn more about company research? Visit our “Conduct Company Research” page for more information.
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From one Boilermaker to another,
Good Luck
Jordan Ingraham
