Job Interview Research

How to Research a Company Before Attending a Job Interview

Ready to level up your interview game?

Picture this: you walk into an interview, armed with insights about the company that even some of their employees might not know! You impress the hiring managers, respond confidently, and leave a mark that distinguishes you from the pack.

Diving deep into a company’s DNA can give you a competitive edge, allowing you to tailor your responses, ask poignant questions, and exhibit genuine interest in the organisation. 

Curious about unlocking the secrets to acing that interview? Let’s explore how deep research can illuminate aspects of a company that are not just skin deep, turning you into the candidate they can’t forget…

1. Company website and careers site

This first one is fairly obvious, but we’re talking about going further than clicking on the ‘About Us’ tab and calling it a day. What’s the company’s mission statement and strategic direction for the mid to long-term? Who’s their target market and exactly what products / services do they provide? Businesses of a certain size are also likely to have a careers site that will detail the EVP, development opportunities for employees and what makes the company a great place to work. Make sure you brush up on this information at the very least! 

2. In the news

If you’re looking for more of an objective view of the company make sure you find out why the business has recently been in the press. Sources like the Financial Times and Forbes will be able to provide detail on recent deals, investment, acquisitions, financial performance and any scandals that are worth being aware of.
 

3. Company’s Annual Report

If you’ve got a thirst for the financials, check out the company accounts. Many larger, publicly listed businesses will have their annual reports available for download on their website; this information is accessible for anyone to browse and provides a great indication of how healthy a company is.
 

4. The wider industry and their competitors

Taking a broader approach to your research will absolutely set you aside from other candidates at interview stage. Find out who the company’s key competitors are and what differentiates one from the other. It’s also well worth doing some further research into the specific company industry – look at overall industry buoyancy and key headlines in the news.

5. Social Media

Social media’s a fairly broad avenue to explore when it comes to pre-interview research; however there are a few quick wins to take advantage of. Check out your interviewer’s professional online profile: how long have they been at the company, what’s their background, have you got any shared connections etc? It’s also important to visit the company’s social pages / profiles to see the type of content they are publishing and the style of communication they adopt. Finally, what are their followers / fans saying about them online?

6. Use your recruitment agency

Recruitment agencies can provide a unique insight into the style, history and culture of a business. If you’re interviewing via an agency ensure you make the most of their client relationship and take advantage of the knowledge they hold.

7. Glassdoor.co.uk

The trip advisor of the recruitment world; use glassdoor.co.uk to find out how the business is perceived from a candidate and employee perspective. How do people rate the: work/life balance, culture and values, senior management etc? What’s more, you might even find a sneaky list of previous interview questions that a kind candidate has posted!

8. Awards and accolades

Whilst it’s great to be able to demonstrate an extended knowledge of the business by highlighting that you’re aware of industry accolades; the employer certainly won’t mind reminiscing the successes. Massage their ego by emphasising these fantastic achievements and tie it in to why working for such a business appeals to you as a candidate.

9. Who do you know?

Hearing it from the horse’s mouth is always best. Reach out to your personal and professional networks to see if you know anyone who works (or worked) at the business. Speak to these individuals to get the inside scoop on company culture, internal projects and what it’s actually like to work there.

10. Google Maps

And finally, an obvious but important tip! If it’s a face to face interview, make sure you find out exactly where the company is located and where possible do a ‘dummy run’ of your journey to avoid any unnecessary hold-ups or confusion on the day.

Concluding thoughts

In the quest to swat up for your next job interview, diving beneath the surface and uncovering the multifaceted layers of a company is your secret weapon. From delving into the company’s mission and strategic aims to exploring its public perception, financial health, and industry positioning, every piece of information adds a string to your interview bow.

Scouring through social media, tapping into recruitment agencies’ insights and exploring Glassdoor, allows you to exhibit a genuine and well-rounded interest in the organisation, setting you apart as a memorable candidate.

Remember, knowledge is power, and by arming yourself with a holistic understanding of the company and its ecosystem, you become the candidate that not only knows where they are going but also appreciates the terrain that comes with it. As you step into that interview, let the depth of your research shine, showcasing your commitment, curiosity, and eagerness to be a part of their journey, thereby turning you into the candidate that leaves an indelible mark.

Get in Touch with PEEQ HR Recruitment Agency

We are here to help you. If you have any questions, queries or would like to discuss a potential hire, a job application, or require clarification on anything detailed on our website, then we would love to hear from you.

Please feel free to call, email or complete the form provided and we will assist you.

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