Research for Your Interview - Charge Ahead of Your Competition

By Sandy Prock M.Ed., JCTC, Co-owner of www.ExpertResume.com

If you are an executive or manager seeking a new position, set your sights high. Stand out from the crowd. Going the extra mile is not a trite saying, but the way for you to land the job you want. This is probably nothing new to you. However, sometimes a gentle reminder can light your fire. Charge ahead of your competition, dig in, Google and research the companies you are interested in and gather as much information as you can. Be informed and stand out from the crowd!

Research and find the answers to these questions:

• What is the size of the company?

• How many employees do they have?

• What is their client base?

• Who do their clientele? What products and services do they offer?

• What is the company culture?

• Where are they located and how many locations do they have?

• What is their pattern of growth?

• Have they downsized? Why?

• What is the company mission?

• What are their current issues and concerns?

• What are their problems? What solutions are they looking for?

• What is their record of accomplishment for innovation and innovative practices?

• What are their standards for quality and production?

• What is their potential for growth?

• Are they lean and mean, or are they generous with benefits, considering time, staff support, flexibility and other benefits.

• What is their favored management structure?

• What is the personality of the company? What type of people do they hire?

• What is their company philosophy?

• How much has the company changed over time?

• What are their assets and liabilities?

These questions will help you get started with your research. Brainstorm and gather all the information necessary to help you find the best match for your personality, skills and abilities. This kind of knowledge will also help you ace your interview and take you leagues ahead of your competition.

Keep track of this information in a notebook. Review this information before you go in for your interview. When you finish the interview, add any new information you learn to your body of research. Do not count on your memory. Use this information in your follow up letters or emails and in follow up interviews. Personalize your communication and refer to what you learned about their company.

When you go in for the interview ask for business cards for correct spelling of names and future reference. Consider taking a professional notepad in case you need to take notes.

Take charge of your career and make sure your resume, cover letter and other job search documents are as polished and professional as you are. A "Great Resume" is a "Must."

Bob and I wish you the best in your job search. If you have any questions about your resume, or other job search documents, feel free to call Bob or email him at ExpertResume@yahoo.com.

Sandy Prock M.ED, JCTC, Co-Owner of www.ExpertResume.com