Taking the Pain Out of Research
Research is usually the most dreaded component of applying and interviewing for jobs. Just the word alone conjures images of hard painful work that makes you miserable. However, there are easy ways to systematize the process that will make it interesting and hopefully should also get you excited about the organization and the position. Here are some simple ways to do your research without feeling tortured:
- Use your LinkedIn account to find out who you know in the organization. This can be individuals who are currently employed or have been by the company. Make a plan to reach out to them immediately for a brief informational interview about their experience at the company, the company culture, the interview process. Typically, those in the know are those who have been there.
- Use Hoovers which is available through the library and Vault which you can find on Starr Search to obtain information about the organization and current news items about the organization. Double check all the information through Google Searches as individuals often change their roles and organizations. You can also use Bloomberg.
- Use the company website to obtain their mission statement and other general information as well as verification of other information you have already obtained.
- Make notes about the information on a format that it easy to read and portable. You should be learning the information and incorporating into your interview responses or pitch. You should use the information to make a very clear statement about why you would like to be at this company.
- You also may want to review your information and plans for tailored responses with your contact at the company as they may help you refine it.
Start your process early as it will be easier to integrate the information with more time . Don’t avoid–the only thing that you will be avoiding is making your process go smoothly.
