How to Correctly Research a Company for a Job Interview
Interviewing at a new company is a daunting task. Understandably, you will want to be thorough in researching the company you are interested in joining. In this article, we will delve into some tips on how to effectively research a new company.
Important aspects to be mindful of when researching a company to convey your knowledge effectively is the source and validity of the company reviews, and where to find relevant available information to gather a holistic understanding of the company.
Understand the industry
Even if you are interviewing to be a developer at a sports brand, where it may not be completely necessary to fully understand the industry, it is beneficial to demonstrate industry knowledge throughout the interview process. This will show your investment into the company, brand and can set you apart from your competition in an interview process.
A news search around the company can give a great perspective on where the company fit into the industry and can give you ideas for relevant questions to ask around the USP’s of their business.
Company-Specific Understanding
Understanding the company throughout its structure, tech stack, annual figures, USP, and company objectives, will allow you to leave a greater impact following your interview and give the best impression to the hiring manager.
The company website is a great place to start in understanding the company’s mission and objectives. LinkedIn is a beneficial resource for understanding a company structure. Talking about the structure and a solid understanding of where your position fits into the company structure can show great initiative, as well as lead a positive conversation to where progression can be for the position.
Take a look at their social media
A social media search can also allow you to gain a solid understanding of the company as well as how their work is affecting the wider industry. You might even see an interesting social campaign they’re working on that you can bring up in your interview. Sometimes social platforms such as Instagram can help you get a feel of the company culture and what office life would be like.
It’s always a good idea to like or follow the company on social too – it’s a great way to get the information you may have missed before your interview otherwise.
Use all tools at your disposal
Don’t forget about places such as Glassdoor – these kinds of websites could give you an edge in your interview. The interview questions and reviews section has some great information for job seekers. Not only can you find out some top interview questions other candidates were asked, but you can also see reviews to get a sense of company culture and the work environment. With that being said, always take these with a pinch of salt and remember most people only leave reviews when they’re unhappy – not happy.
If you’re using a staffing agency, ask your contact for information on the interview process. The chances are, they might have had other candidates interview and can give you some tips on what to expect.
Pay a little bit of attention to their competitors
Don’t only research the company you’re applying with, take a look at the overall industry and their competitors. You want to be able to identify a competitor and its successes and flaws. A popular interview question is ‘Who do you think are our main competitors?’ and having a good answer to this, with details will impress your interviewer.
Use your research in your interview
You’ve spent all of this time researching the company, it’s important to remember to use the research in your interview! Your interviewer will ask questions to get to know you to determine if you’re the right fit for the position and company. Your research should allow you to respond to questions compellingly and show that you understand the company as a whole – not just for the role you’re going for.
Plus, your research should have given you enough information to share details about the company you like, its mission and its culture when you’re asked why you would like to work for them.
Searching for a new job can be a difficult and daunting task, but once you’ve found the perfect job and company for you, it will completely change your life. At Adapt Talent we are an eCommerce & AI Recruitment Staffing Agency. We have a range of job roles available, get in touch today to see if we can help place you in your perfect job.
