How to Research a Company Before Attending a Job Interview

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.