By Richard Kent Matthews - Coach | Author | Speaker
Have you done your due diligence? Your new job may depend on it!
Before you head to your interview, it's important to gather information about the company/organization/business. The more you know about the products, services, goals, mission statements and competitors, the better impression you'll make. Most people won't do what you're going to do. You'll be in a good position to take the lead!
I found this great list in Next Day Job Interview (2nd ed., 2009) by Michael Farr and Dick Gaither. You can find it on Amazon or, like me, get it from your local library. Easy, quick read.
From the book:
"Employers want people who are problem solvers* and future focused. By researching...you can walk into the interview and demonstrate your ability to identify common problems...and point to future trends... A few types of information you should acquire include the following:
| Job Interview coming up? It pays to do your research! |
Have you done your due diligence? Your new job may depend on it!
Before you head to your interview, it's important to gather information about the company/organization/business. The more you know about the products, services, goals, mission statements and competitors, the better impression you'll make. Most people won't do what you're going to do. You'll be in a good position to take the lead!
I found this great list in Next Day Job Interview (2nd ed., 2009) by Michael Farr and Dick Gaither. You can find it on Amazon or, like me, get it from your local library. Easy, quick read.
From the book:
"Employers want people who are problem solvers* and future focused. By researching...you can walk into the interview and demonstrate your ability to identify common problems...and point to future trends... A few types of information you should acquire include the following:
- The latest trends in your chosen career field.
- Any environmental or political factors affecting the industry.
- New technologies, equipment, or methods coming soon.
- Common problems within this industry or field.
- The number of companies in the industry.
- Professional organizations supporting the industry.
- Trade and professional journals of the industry.
- Projected employment growth of the industry.
- Pay and compensation packages within the industry.
- Training or education that will be needed."
You can find nearly anything you need online, in trade publications, encyclopedias of associations, and even from information provided directly by the company with which you're interviewing.
The better impression you make, the better your chances. Having a good, rounded knowledge of the industry and the company will give you just that much more of a leg up.
One more bonus tip... If you can, get some good positive information on the person who'll be interviewing you.
One more bonus tip... If you can, get some good positive information on the person who'll be interviewing you.
Best of luck to you.
*You veterans should be aware that companies don't always know how to translate your military skills into company skills. This is your opportunity to show them you know what you're doing as a civilian employee. It gives them a much better reason to consider you for the job.
*You veterans should be aware that companies don't always know how to translate your military skills into company skills. This is your opportunity to show them you know what you're doing as a civilian employee. It gives them a much better reason to consider you for the job.
