Skip to main content

Key interview prep: how to research companies and interviewers

Addison Group
Candidates found by Addison Group is researching companies and interviewers before their job interview

Researching a company and your interviewer before a job interview is a powerful strategy that can set you apart from other candidates. It demonstrates genuine interest, helps you tailor your responses, and ensures the company is a good fit for your career goals.

Here’s why this step is crucial and how to do it effectively.

Why you should research companies and interviewers

Demonstrates genuine interest 

Employers value candidates who’ve taken the time to learn about the company. When you reference the company’s mission, values, or recent achievements, you signal enthusiasm and commitment, making a memorable impression.

Tailor your responses 

Understanding the company’s mission and priorities allows you to align your skills and experiences with their needs. This helps you answer questions more effectively and highlights how you can contribute to their goals.

Assess fit and culture 

Researching helps you determine if the company’s culture, values, and work environment match your own preferences. This is essential for long-term job satisfaction and success.

Craft insightful questions 

With knowledge of the company, you can ask thoughtful questions that show you’ve done your homework. This not only impresses interviewers but also helps you gather information to make an informed decision.

Stand out from other candidates 

Many applicants fail to research the company. Doing so sets you apart as prepared, organized, and genuinely interested in the opportunity.

How to research a company

Start with the company website 

  • Review the “About Us,” “Mission,” and “Values” pages for insight into the company’s purpose and culture.
  • Explore the organization’s careers page, press releases, and recent news to understand current priorities and achievements.

Check social media and news 

  • Follow the company’s social media accounts for updates on culture, events, and initiatives.
  • Search for recent news articles or press releases to learn about major changes, challenges, or successes.

Read employee reviews 

  • Platforms like Glassdoor or Indeed offer employee reviews that can reveal insights into company culture, management style, and work-life balance.

Research the industry and competitors 

  • Understanding the company’s position in the industry and its main competitors shows strategic awareness that can help you discuss broader trends during your interview.

How to research your interviewer

Find their professional profile 

  • Use LinkedIn to review your interviewer’s background, role, and career path. Look for shared interests or connections.
  • Check the company website’s “Team” or “Leadership” page for bios and information about the company’s leaders.

Look for published work or social media activity 

  • If your interviewer has written articles, given talks, or is active on professional networks, review their work to find conversation starters or areas of mutual interest.

Prepare personalized questions

  • Reference your interviewer’s experience or recent projects in your questions. For example, “I saw you led the recent product launch. What were some key challenges your team overcame?” This demonstrates initiative and builds rapport.

Tips for effective research

  • Take notes as you research, highlighting key facts, values, and recent news.
  • Prepare two to three specific questions for the interviewer based on your research.
  • Practice weaving your research into your answers, such as, “I noticed your company values innovation, and in my last role, I led a project that…”
  • Double-check the job description and match your skills to the requirements listed.

Researching a company and your interviewer is not just about impressing others – it’s about ensuring the opportunity aligns with your own goals and values. This preparation helps you answer questions confidently, ask meaningful questions, and make informed career decisions. In today’s competitive job market, a little research can go a long way toward landing the right job.

Ready to start the job search? Addison Group can help. Our recruiters have been matching top talent with established companies for more than 20 years. Visit our jobs page or reach out to us today to find a job right for you.