What Should I Research Before an Interview?

An invitation to an interview is a good sign and it shows that the hiring manager was impressed with your CV. It also means that they see potential in you and that they're interested in finding out more about you, your skills and experience.

When it comes to being successful in an interview, preparation is key. A good place to start is by researching the company you’re applying to. Make it your mission to find out as much as possible including the company's history, why it was established and key people who work there. 

The type of information you are looking for should be readily available on the company’s website, LinkedIn, Glassdoor and news sites. Make notes of key information which might be necessary to talk about or use in your answers during your interview.

By taking the time and effort to prepare, a hiring manager will see that you are passionate about working for them. Commitment and passion are desirable traits and highly sought after by hiring managers.

As a bare minimum, you should turn up to the interview knowing:

• When the business was established.
• Company culture, mission and values.
• Company history.
• The type of people who currently work there. 
• Key people who work there including CEOs and managers.
• The person interviewing you. 
• Their competitors and where they stand in the market.
• What makes the company unique?
• Clients they work with.
• Products and services. 
• Latest news.  
• Future plans and ambitions.