Before the Interview - Research Company

Research the company or workplace several days before the interview. Conduct your research on the internet or by visiting the workplace. Write down at least 4 brief facts about the company / workplace. Review your notes right before the interview.

During the interview, you will probably be asked why you want to work there, so it will be helpful to know something about the company or business.  Research the company or workplace before your interview.  That way, you will sound knowledgeable about the company and workplace during your interview. This sends the message that you are interested in the job.

Take notes as you conduct your research.  Your goal should be to write down at least 4 brief facts about the company.

There are two main ways that you can research the workplace:

On the Internet

You might be able to go on the internet to learn something about the company or business.  Try googling the place you are applying to by typing in its name at www.google.com.  Then, click on the website most relevant to the job you are applying for.  Read about the workplace or company on its website. The job application or job posting may provide the company’s website.  If so, go on the website and learn about the workplace. 

By visiting the workplace beforehand if possible

If the job is at a store, you could go and visit the store one time for 10-15 minutes to get an idea about the types of products or services that the store provides. 

When researching the workplace, take note of:

• The company’s mission or goal
• The type of products it manufactures
• The type of services it provides
• The clientele (customers) it provides services to

Review your notes the night before your interview or a few minutes before your interview. You could even bring these notes into your interview and look at them if you need to.