Savvy Job Seekers' Guide to Researching Companies

Whether you are actively seeking a new job or just contemplating a career change, one crucial step in your job search process is researching potential employers. Savvy job seekers know that researching 5-15 target companies is a must-do task. Understanding a company's culture, values, and position in the market can help you tailor your job search strategy and ensure you land a job that aligns with your goals and values. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help job seekers research companies effectively.

Benefits of Researching Companies

Before diving into the steps for effective company research, let's explore the numerous benefits of this approach:

1) Customized Resume: Tailor your resume to match the company's needs and culture.

2) Personalized Messaging: Craft interview responses that align with the company's mission and values.

3) Understanding the Business: Gain insights through recent news and PR updates.

4) Company Culture: Discover the company's values, mission, and vision.

5) Employee Insights: Investigate staff turnover rates and tenured employees.

6) Growth Prospects: Identify potential growth through mergers and acquisitions.

7) Employee Value Proposition (EVP): Learn about employee benefits beyond medical coverage.

Now, let's break down the steps you should follow to research a company thoroughly:

1. Basic Information:
- Company name 
- Website URL
- Location
- Years in business
- Industry

Tip: Maintain a tracking Excel spreadsheet with columns for applications, contacts, networking notes, and interview details. 

2. Company Website:
Explore the "About Us" section for mission, vision, and values.
Visit the Careers/Jobs section for tailored information:

- Employee benefits
- Career advancement programs
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)
- Work-life balance policies

3. Leadership:
Learn about the executive leadership team and their backgrounds.

4. News and Press Releases:
Look for recent articles and press releases 📰 to stay updated on company activities.

5. Competitors:
Identify the company's competitors and assess their market position.

6. Social Media and Online Presence:
Analyze the company's social media activities, engagement, and reviews.

7. LinkedIn:
Visit the company's LinkedIn Page for valuable insights.
Explore current and past employee profiles.

8. Customer and Employee Reviews:
Check platforms like Glassdoor and Trustpilot for culture and satisfaction feedback.

9. Financial Reporting:
Access annual reports or investor relations sections for financial performance data.

10. Industry Research:
Industry-specific journals 
Find industry-specific reports and market research

- Competitive landscape
- Market outlook
- Potential disruptors

Resources: US Census Bureau, IBISWorld, PwC, Social Media Examiner, industry associations.

11. Legal and Regulatory Issues:
Research potential legal or regulatory risks the company may face.

12. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):
Explore the company's CSR initiatives and environmental commitment.

13. Company Reputation:
Assess the company's reputation within the industry and among customers.
Look for awards or recognitions.

Job-hunting success requires informed decisions. Savvy job seekers know that researching a company is not just a bonus - it's a MUST. Follow these steps to align your goals with the right company, based on shared values and career aspirations.

Whether you're looking to switch careers or take the next step in your current career, our certified career coaches & strategists can help you explore a wide range of possibilities and learn how our training courses can help you reach your career goals. 

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