Your #1 Guide to Researching Companies
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There are many aspects to consider when you’re job-searching, including crafting the perfect curriculum vitae (CV) and putting together a cohesive cover letter. Of course, there is one aspect that you should prioritise above all others: researching various companies and potential employers.
Why is it important to conduct this type of research? When looking into different companies or businesses, you want to ensure that you’re a good fit for them, and vice versa. Research also helps you tailor your application, prepare insightful interview questions, and gauge the company’s culture and financial health.
This information may also help you uncover potential issues, avoid undesirable employers and use salary data to justify your desired compensation.
How to Get Started
Don’t know where to begin? Take a look at this practical guide for researching companies:
1. Start with the Company’s Website
The first step is to visit the company’s official website or blog. This gives you an opportunity to explore their products and services, company size, culture (do they promote a casual or formal environment?), dress code and growth opportunities. Thereafter, you will be able to ascertain if the company aligns with your core values and goals.
2. Check in on LinkedIn for Employee Insights
Use LinkedIn to find current employees in the desired department of the company you’re researching. Connect with them to ask about the company culture or the role you’re applying for, including the daily duties it entails.
Remember to be polite and professional in your comms, as these contacts might become a valuable resource for your job search and potentially even recommend you for a position. Be sure to avoid asking overly demanding or inappropriate questions.
3. Scan the Newsfeed
Search for the company’s name on Google News, which can provide full articles about the company in question. Take note of any developments or controversies, such as product launches, international expansions or fraud. This shows that you’re up-to-date and helps you avoid companies with red flags.
4. Read Glassdoor Reviews
Per their website description, Glassdoor “is a website where employees review their current or previous company”, be it about the employers, work practices and culture. It also offers salary averages, as well as deep insights into the interview process and benefits.
As such, Glassdoor is a useful tool for identifying potential red flags, negotiating a fair salary and finding a company that aligns with your career aspirations.
5. Take a Social Media Deep Dive
Most companies use social media platforms – namely LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter/X – to build their presence.
In order to get a sense of their communication style and how they interact with their audience, be sure to check out their profiles. That way, you can gain valuable insights into their brand personality, understand their target audience, and tailor your own interactions or job applications.
6. Salary Research
Compare the company’s offered salary range with industry standards and cost of living in the area. Use resources such as Glassdoor, Salary.com, Comparably and Payscale to research average salaries for similar roles in the same location.
This will help you determine if the company’s compensation is competitive (without getting low-balled) and whether you need to negotiate.
Put Your Research to Use
Once you have gathered enough information, you can put together the ideal CV and cover letter, highlighting specific skills and experiences that align with the company’s values and goals. If you progress to the interview stage, you can prepare thoughtful questions based on your research and weave your knowledge into the conversation naturally, demonstrating genuine interest and enthusiasm.
It will require a great deal of time, patience and energy, but ultimately, your research efforts will enable you to stand out among other candidates and strengthen your chances of landing the job. Good luck!