HOW TO RESEARCH EMPLOYERS
Knowing a lot about your local job market is a key part of successful job hunting and networking. The first step is to find companies within your industry and research potential employers in your local area to help tailor all your application material, be well prepared during an interview, and save time during your job search. Knowing the basics about an employer will help you decide whether or not they are hiring in your field and whether it is a place you would like to work.
When you begin your research, keep an organized list of companies and employers so that your information is easily accessible and is a quick reference for you when writing a cover letter or preparing for an interview. Include the company, contact information including websites, general information, and relevant job postings.
What information is good to know about employers? The history and age of the company, such as how long they have been located in your local area, will be valuable information. You will need to look at if they are a single location or a local or national chain. Thoroughly research the services and/or products they sell or provide, and the company’s philosophy and/or mission. Other important informational items include the size of the company, leadership structure, whether it is privately versus publically-owned, and any major achievements they have earned. Finally, always research the positions they have open or the types of jobs they are looking to fill.
Phone books can be a good source of employer groupings. Check with the Chamber of Commerce in your area or visit their online site. Trade magazines and professional organizations can also be a good source for employers in your industry. Also, there are several business directories in the public library such as Dun & Bradstreet’s Million Dollar Directory, Standard and Poor’s Reg- ister of Corporations, and Ward’s Business Directory.
You can also use an online search engine to look up types of companies or employers within an industry. If you find a company’s name, see if they have any current news stories written about them. Many companies and employers use social media sites to advertise and post company news too. Become a “fan” of the company or follow their information on these sites.
After you have identified some potential employers, check to see if they have websites before you attempt to contact them. Company websites frequently have valuable information about job openings and how to apply for them. Additionally, company websites may have annual reports, history, mission statements, future projects, products, and information about their customers, and contact names for your cover letter/resume.
Use your network connections to research information about the company and potential employer. If you have had friends or family work for the company, ask them about their experience or see if they can provide you a list of related employers or competitors.
After you research a list of employers and have gathered research on each, tailor your resume and cover letter for the jobs you would like to apply for. Being competitive in today’s job market requires that you research employers carefully to relate your application to the employer’s needs and demonstrate a strong interest in the employer. You will be better prepared for the job application process as well as know if the employer is the right fit for you.