Research

Now that we understand what great companies are looking for let's cover the minimum information you must know about any company you interview with.  Most of this information can be found in two places: The Company's corporate web site and the Company's annual report (usually available on the web site).  

1. Products & Services - What products or services does this company sell?  What categories does it compete in?  For example, a company that primarily manufactures and markets food products may also provide raw materials for other industries. A telecommunications company may also market some consumer electronics equipment. A retailer may also provide banking services.
2. Brands - Brands are the identity of any company to consumers. Know what their biggest brands are and what they stand for. Use this detail in your interview and other correspondence to show that you recognize one of the company's most important assets.
3. Markets - Where does the company compete today? Who are its competitors? What is the mix of U.S vs. Global business? Where are the emerging markets and how much promise do they hold for the company?
4. Consumers - Who are the company's target consumers? Is the consumer base growing or shrinking?  Do its products and services appeal to very different consumer groups?
5. Financial Position - How has the company performed the past several years? Does the company deliver on its earnings projections reliably?  If publically traded, has the stock price been growing?  How much debt does the company carry?
6. Mergers and Acquistions - Has the company merged or made any acquisitions in the past 5 years?  ave there been reports of potential mergers in the future? Are these businesses a good strategic fit for the company in question?
7. Company Headquarters - Where is the company headquarters located? Where are their major plants and/or regional offices? This is expecially important because if you have asuccessful career, you will be asked to relocate to headquarters sooner or later.
8. Career Pathing - What opportunities are open to managers in the company? Does the company mainly promote from within or hire talent from outside the company? Is there opportunity to change functions over time i.e. Sales to Marketing or Manufacturing to Product Development, etc.?

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