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Researching Potential Employers

Published: Mar 10, 2009

 Job Search       

Doing your homework doesn't apply just to class. Some job seekers do more research picking out their next CD player than getting the inside scoop on their future employer or career. It's always a wise idea to learn everything possible about potential future employers before you even send in that resume, and certainly before you walk into an interview

How can you stay ahead of the game? The first obvious place to go is the company web site. Most large companies will have a web site full of information on recent engagements, products and services, job openings, and other vital information. Some larger companies have sections of their web site that are specifically targeted toward college and MBA students. Any company will expect you to have read this information before applying or interviewing.

Through work or school, you may have access to Nexis/Lexis, the online database of newspaper and magazine articles. Nexis is a superb resource for finding tidbits about companies that you might not have otherwise known - or deciding that perhaps you don't want to work at this company, after all.

Whether you're in school or an alum, your alumni network is an excellent resource. One of the best ways to learn about the joys and pitfalls of an individual company is to talk to someone who works there (or used to).

Of course, Vault Reports can also save you significant research time. We've already scoured every publicly available resource on over 700 firms, talked to thousands of insiders, and accessed information not available elsewhere.

  • What should you look for when researching potential employers?
  • How big is this company?
  • How fast is it growing?
  • Where is it based?
  • What opportunities will I have for travel/overseas assignments?
  • Will I get stock options?
  • Is this a company I could spend the next year at, or my entire career?
  • What qualifications do successful candidates have?
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