Blog Post: A Change is Coming... Start Researching Companies Now

Those of you that keep up with the news have already heard. Indications are that the economy is stabilizing (meaning the recession is lessening) in some sectors. These are key areas of the economy too: construction, health care, education... Employment is a lagging indicator, so do not expect a change in the unemployment arena in the immediate future.

However, as the recession slows (and, hopefully, starts to reverse) companies will begin growing again. Generally, entry level positions will be available first. As entry level positions get filled, higher-level supervisory and technical/professional positions will be required. This will not be an overnight change, but indications are the light at the end of the tunnel is shining.

As things change, companies will start hiring. Don't accept just anything unless you need to. Research companies' backgrounds to ensure you know what they do, where they do it, and what their plans are. For large companies you can find this information on Yahoo! Finance or Google Finance. Smaller companies will require a little more digging. Generally a typical Google search using the company name will pull up some interesting info.

When interviewing with a company, always review the company's web site and pull up some additional information on other sites. Look for information on the company's social endeavors, any diversity information regarding their employment practices, and their financial health. Check out their product line and how diversified the company is.

Nothing is worse then ending an otherwise impressive interview with either no questions by the candidate or questions that are elementary and demonstrate that the candidate did not adequately research the company.

At the end of the interview, you must ask at least one (preferably two) questions that demonstrate that you did do your research on the company. "I see that you are going to be launching a new widget in January of 2010. How is this going to change your 17% market share in the US?" That question demonstrates a knowledge of the product line, the time line of the product launch, and a concept of products impacting market share. Not bad!

Always do your homework. Ensure the company is a good fit for you from an employment perspective, but also ensure you thoroughly understand the company's background before the interview. Be prepared to discuss it with the interviewer.

For more tips, join us for our FREE July seminars at http://www.careerdevelopmentaz.com/seminar.html. It's a great opportunity to get expert advise on resumes and interviewing. Space is limited and the event is absolutely free.

If there's anything we can do to help, let us know!

As always, good luck in your search!