Researching your potential employer shows that you are interested in the position, and it provides insight into the employer's needs. Your research will give you a better sense of the workplace culture, the employer's strengths and weaknesses, and what qualities are valued in employees.
Company Website--Visit the "About Us" page to learn about the company, mission statement, and products/services. Also, read any pages that focus on news articles for up to date information about community involvement, initiatives, awards, etc.
Social Media--Visit the company's Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn pages. Social media is a great way to learn about the business as well as its followers.
Google--Google the company. This is a good way to find news articles and other information not included on the employer's website. Also Google any unfamiliar terms or professional jargon included in the job posting.
The Carl B. subscribes to several newspaper databases that can help you with your research. Select a database that is appropriate for the location and size of your employer. For example, search the Forum for a small start up in Fargo and the New York Times or Wall Street Journal for a larger publicly traded company.
The Carl B. subscribes to several databases that include information about publicly and privately traded companies and industry reports.
To find SWOT analyses in NexisUni:
Resume and Cover Letter
Read the job description carefully to identify the skills and qualifications that the employer is looking for. Then, use the information you found during your research to customize your cover letter and resume.
Interview
Researching the company in advance will reduce your interview anxiety and make you appear more confident. Make sure you research the following before your interview:
Your research will also make it easier to tailor your answers to frequently asked interview questions like the following:
Your research will also make it easier to think of questions to ask during the interview. For example, you could mention something you learned during your research that impressed you. For example, if the company's mission impressed you, ask how the person hired for the position can support that mission through their day to day activities. You could also mention something you read about the company in the newspaper or on their website and ask your interviewer(s) to tell you more about it.