Use this handy list of criteria to narrow down your job search…

The Employer

Company details

• Company name (check spelling!)
• Research company’s main website
• Research company’s careers page
• Main location (HQ) and regional locations
• Company size and annual turnover

Company business

• What services does the company provide?
• What products does the company make?
• What is the company’s mission statement?
• Can I sum up these details in my own words?

Clients and customers

• Who uses this company’s services/products?
• Where do clients and customers use these services/products – is the company’s business local, national or international?

Competitors

• What other organisations offer similar services/products in this area?
• How do the companies compare to your prospective employer?

News

• Check to see if the company has made any recent press releases.
• Check to see if the company has been in the news lately.

The Position

Relevant opportunities

• Work experience/internships/placements/school leaver schemes
• What does the opportunity you are applying for involve?

Position requirements

• Is there a required degree background or result?
• Are there minimum UCAS points required?
• Are there any necessary skills or experience?

Application details

• Type of application (covering letter and CV, online form etc.).
• Application deadline – make sure to get yours in well before the given date.
• Contact details – who should your application be addressed to?

Selection process

• What is the company’s selection process – tests, interviews, assessment centres etc.?
• If this information is not available on the website, are there contact details for the recruitment team?
• Does the company’s website give any application tips or layout any necessary application elements?

The Culture

Company image

• What does the company state or imply its core values to be?
• How does the organisation brand itself?
• Can you concisely summarise your thoughts and opinions on the above?
• Has the company won any awards related to its products or services recently?
• What do current interns and graduates say? Read employee profiles here.

Expectations

• Will you be based in one location or does this opportunity involve travel?
• If travel is required, how often and how far?
• What training is on offer?
• How is your training structured?
• What is the company’s record for employing graduates who have previously completed work experience with them?
• Are there any benefits on offer with this opportunity?

Reflection

• After completing all this research, what are your thoughts on the organisation?
• Why do you want to apply to this company?
• What can you offer this company?
• Prepare a list of questions to ask at interview.