At every stage of the job seeking process you need to do your research. And it starts even before a job opportunity becomes available as you need to carefully considering what you want to do, what roles might be available and what skills or qualifications are required.
Of course, online is probably the first place you will look but you’re probably going to need to speak to real people too. It might be a good idea to join a relevant industry organizations or associations and see if they have meetings, information nights, or seminars where you can meet people and learn more about who is who in the field and where job opportunities may be.
Joining industry organisations is also a great way to get noticed, show your initiative and start making contacts in the field. Plus, such organizations often have newsletters that advertise upcoming jobs and opportunities as well.
When you see a role you’re interested in, try and compare it with how similar roles are described or advertised in other companies. Comparing and contrasting the specifics of the role can help you to define the most important aspects of the role you are applying for and thereby match your own skills and experience in your application.
Then when you do get an interview, learn as much as you can about the company before you arrive. Although the interview is an opportunity to learn and ask questions about a role, it helps to have questions prepared that show you’ve done your homework. You will look a bit silly if you don’t know the basics of what the company does. It’s also a good idea to ask who will be interviewing you and what their roles in the company are.
Even if you’ve been head hunted or asked to come in for an interview informally you need to do as much research as you can about the company and the people you are likely to meet. Know the scope of their operation, see if their annual reports are available and read them carefully. Absolutely, check out their website. Identify who is who and where the role you are considering or are being considered for sits within the company. All this information will help you present yourself as someone who is through, knowledgeable, conscientious and enthusiastic.
