Things to research before any job interview

University courses English & Journalism
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You’ve put in the hard work to earn your degree, and now you’re gearing up for the next big challenge: job interviews. But to ace that interview, you need more than just qualifications—you need thorough preparation. Researching the company beforehand is the first step towards making a lasting impression and showcasing your genuine interest in the role.

Let’s break down the key areas you should focus on:

Knowing the Company:
Start with the company’s website, particularly the “About Us” section and their Mission Statement. This will give you insights into their history, values, and objectives. If the company emphasizes philanthropy, for instance, highlighting your interest in charitable work during the interview can demonstrate alignment with their values.

Understanding the Position:
Dig deep into the specifics of the role. Understand the essential job requirements, qualifications, and potential supervisors. Tailor your responses to showcase relevant experiences and skills, such as leadership qualities if the position involves mentoring others.

Knowing the Interview Team:
Familiarize yourself with the interviewers, if possible. Finding common ground—whether through shared educational or professional backgrounds—can help establish rapport and highlight your strengths.

Gaining an Edge:
Remember, you’re not the only candidate vying for the position. Familiarize yourself with the company’s culture by checking their social media presence. Engage with recent news and developments to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role.

Diving into Business Details:
Delve into the company’s products, services, clients, and industry landscape. Understanding the company’s unique selling proposition (USP) and its position in the market allows you to articulate how you can contribute to its success.

By meticulously researching these aspects, you’ll be better equipped to impress your interviewers and stand out from the competition. Preparation is key to landing your dream job, so invest the time and effort needed to excel in every interview opportunity.

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These tips break down the essential areas you should focus on to make a lasting impression. How do you approach researching a company before an interview?

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yes the preparation is indeed crucial when it comes to acing job interviews. Researching the company thoroughly beforehand not only demonstrates genuine interest but also helps tailor your responses effectively.

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The preperation for an interview can realy impact how well the interview goes!

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Great advice on interview preparation! How do you personally approach tailoring your responses to align with the company’s values and job requirements?

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I always make sure to research company’s values and some recent achievements. As i apply for communications jobs, I make sure to research their social media posts, big company announcements, to get some understanding of how they put together posts, what do they usually talk about, current sustainability campaigns etc. Most of the information is usually on the company’s website, but checking out their LinkedIn profile is a good idea as well.

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Usually, it comes quite naturally. As all the jobs i’m applying for have the same responsibilities I had during my placement, it’s quite easy to present why I am a good fit for the role. As per values, almost every single time i get asked ‘Why do you want to work specificaly for us?’ or something similar. And this is a great way to showcase that you’re:
a. A good cultural fit.
b. Have done your research on the company.
To such questions, it’s better to reply by saying that you have the essential skills they require, mention some previous experiences that made you a great fit for the role, but then also add that their company is a good fit for you too, as your ethos corresponds to their values (don’t forget to mention all or some of them). This way, you’ll create a nice and well-rounded answer :slight_smile:

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Researching the company before an interview can make all the difference. It shows you’re genuinely interested and ready to hit the ground running

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Absolutely! Aligning your values with the company’s is key!

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Research is so important. There is nothing more frustrating to an employer than going to an interview and not knowing anything about the company.

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