Finding the right job
Researching the Industry
As the old saying goes: if you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail. Never is this truer than before a job interview. Arming yourself with the right information is vital and could make all the difference in your interview.
There are three main areas that you should get an insight into – the role, the company and the industry. Having knowledge about these areas will show any employer that you are committed and enthusiastic.
The Role
This is probably the easiest part, as a brief job remit should have been included in the job advertisement. Companies will usually give some sort of idea of the skills and level of experience they’re looking for. However, there are some other things you can find out about. What will the interview process be like – how many people will interview you and what positions do they hold in the company? There may be some sort of test involved or you could be interviewed in a group. The more you know about what to expect, the more you can practice and the less nervous you’ll be on the day.
The Company
What?
Try to think about their products and services (especially new areas they're looking to break into), the markets/industries they’re in and who their competitors are. Find out how long the company has been around and how is it structured.
What are the key objectives for the firm and what can you offer to help achieve them?
Has the company won any awards recently, joined with a key business partner or done some charity fundraising?
All these pieces of information will familiarise you with the company.
How?
The company’s website is always the best place to start. Most will feature an ‘about us’ section, which will have lots of information – perhaps a mission statement or a breakdown of the company structure. An annual report may even be available, which will give an insight into the company’s background, future plans and financial status.
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