Career Connectionspeople

How to Research Employers

Why is employer research necessary?

  • You can tailor your resume and cover letter to a specific company.
  • Employer research assists you in preparing for the interview.
  • You will give a favorable impression at the interview due to your effort.
  • You are set apart from other candidates.
  • Your research efforts demonstrate respect for the interviewer and the company.

Where should I look for employer information?

  • Your college's career services center.
  • Library reference materials (e.g. annual reports, organizational charts, stock reports).
  • Recruiting materials from the company's recruiting office.
  • Job descriptions in newspapers, magazines, etc.
  • In-house publications.
  • National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Job Choices magazines (also at www.jobweb.com).
  • Trade/professional associations.
  • A local historical society.

What type of information is important?

  • Names (and # years with company) of President, CEO, personnel director, and department director.
  • The company's mission and/or vision statement.
  • Size of company (# part-time and full-time employees).
  • Age of company.
  • Organizational structure.
  • Description of products/services.
  • Location of headquarters, divisions, and subsidiaries (including any foreign operations).
  • Sales, assets, and patterns of growth.
  • Current price of company's stock.
  • Any new products/services, projects, or acquisitions.
  • Competitors.
  • Reputation.
  • Benefit packages, relocation policies, tuition assistance, advancement opportunities, and un/structured training offered.
  • People you know that work for the company.
  • Typical career paths followed by employees in your field.
  • Ages of top management versus new employees.
  • Recent news releases.


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