One of the top complaints among employers is that “soon to be” or recent graduates have not adequately prepared themselves for the job search. They often find themselves answering questions that indicate the job seeker has not researched their organization effectively. Time spent researching an employer will pay off in many ways as you will be able to:
- Discover employers that have positions related to a particular type of work, industry, or geographic location that appeals to you (Who hires people to do what you want to do?).
- Identify contacts within the companies/organizations that interest you (If there isn’t an advertised opening, who can you contact about anticipated openings?).
- Write stronger cover letters (What information can you include in the letter to specifically address how you can contribute to the employer’s needs?).
- Stand out positively during employment interviews, career fairs, and in other interactions with recruiters. (What information can you share to demonstrate that your knowledge of the organization goes beyond identifying the products or services provided by the organization?).
- Determine if the organization will likely be a good place to work (What does the employer provide in the way of salary and benefits? How does the organization as a whole mesh with your values?).
