How To Research Your Next Employer
Before you plunge headlong into accepting a position, it is always worth checking out an employer to see just what kind of company they are. The research that you undertake should be discreet, for obvious reasons, but it is well worth doing, since companies will always present a side that they want you to see, rather than being completely upfront.
One of the best ways to find out about a company is to do an internet search and find out as much as you can. Look at some of the more obscure pages, where some of the company’s ‘dirty laundry’ may be hidden. The first few pages may be press releases or PR for the company, but those lower down the search engine rankings, may contain vital information about financial status, potential for growth (or contraction) as well as information about any negative publicity that they have had, or any tribunals that they have gone through.
Having done some research it is always worth alluding to this in the interview. You can make some comments about their recent activities or new areas that they are working in: just something to show that you have ‘looked them up’. This shows not only that you are serious about the position, but that you are willing to take time to find out about the company and what they do.
If you want to know more about how they treat employees make a few telephone calls, particularly to a local recruitment agency, you may be able to learn more information about how the company rates as an employer, although a good recruitment agency will always be diplomatic!
Even if you are temping, then it is worth undertaking a little research about a company where you will be undertaking a temping position, since ultimately that may help you to enjoy a more productive career, so whilst it may seem somewhat onerous, it really is worth the effort.