Preparing for a Job Interview

Preparing for a job interview begins with conducting good background research on the company, the job and even the people you will be meeting. Find out how to do this company research and which resources to use to get the company information you need.

Our guidelines show you how to get the company information you need to stand out as the winning job candidate in your job interview.

Review these basic rules before beginning your company research

• It is easier to find out information about a publicly held company than privately owned organizations because public companies are legally required to make certain information available.



• When conducting company research on a subsidiary of a larger company start with the parent company or holding corporation. You can then drill down into the subsidiary information.


• Nationally known companies are easier to research company info on than local firms. Check whether the company is part of a bigger, national organization and start your research there.


• Internet company information is generally more up to date than print sources (directories). News in journals and newspapers is obviously more current but a company has to have been news-worthy to get into these publications.


• Use a variety of research sources, when preparing for a job interview, to get the most valid information. Remember to consider the source of the company information. A web search will give you data from a variety of sources, it is up to you to recognize reputable and valid information. Information from the company website is usually the most reliable but if you have gone to other sites or sources try and validate the information you get by cross referencing with another source.

How to find Job Interview Information on the internet is covered for you in detail here.

Learn about Preparing for an Interview using off line research sources.

What can I do if I cannot find any information on the company on the internet?

Before conducting your interview preparation, make sure you have the full and proper company name. Sometimes a company is commonly referred to by a different name to the registered name. Check whether it is a subsidiary of a larger corporation and if so focus on the parent company.

Private companies may be difficult to get information on. You can refer to Ward's Business Directory of US Private and Public Companies. Your local library should have this directory. Alternatively contact the company directly and see if they can provide you with any information.

Preparing for a job interview starts here. Research company information using the internet or refer to other resources.

Find out how to put this information to good use when answering common Job Interview Questions

Use this information when preparing the right Job Interview Question to ask the interviewer.

Make sure you have everything ready before your job interview. Go to the complete Interview Checklist to be well prepared before your interview.

What job are you interviewing for? The Job Interview Guide provides interview questions and answers for a wide range of job types.

Related Articles

Tips on Job Interview Preparation - 3 essential steps to take

Prepare for a Job Interview - what the recruiter should tell you

The Informational Interview - maximize your opportunity

Go to Job Interview Tips homepage

Return from Preparing for a Job Interview to Best Job Interview

	Enter your search termsSubmit search form
	Web best-job-interview.com