Researching Employers

Research is a key component to your successful job/internship search. If you do your homework, you can talk more confidently about how your skills and experiences will fit the organization. You will also be able to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific position for which you are applying. Research will also help you, as the applicant, determine if the position and organization fits your skills, values, and goals. Use the following as general guides for what to you should research.

Basic Facts

• Number of stores, plants, outlets, employees.
• Geographic locations, headquarter location, parent or subsidiary information.
• When and how the organization was established.
• Organization’s national and local reputation, awards, other recognition, etc.
• Any recent news stories about the organization.

Financial Information 

• Size of firm and industry and how the organization is structured.
• Funding sources and stock prices (if relevant).
• Growth, decline, or recent changes in structure or products.

Philosophy/Goals

• Mission, vision, philosophy of the organization.
• Biographical information on the CEO or managers.
• Training programs, typically career paths, employer’s review or evaluation process.

Where can I find this information?

• Organization’s website, LinkedIn and other Social Media.
• Chambers of Commerce, trade journals and business magazines.
• Networking – current or former employers.
• Glassdoor.com