Canicatti, Sicily, Italy
How to Research Companies
by Mary A. Schumacher
Recruiters say that job candidates should know something about the company they are applying to. This advice makes sense. The person who went to the time and trouble to do a little company research already stands head and shoulders above those who didn't bother. The extra enthusiasm and effort already make this person shine.
Fortunately, the Internet makes research much easier than in pre-wired days, or you can visit your local library. Here's what you are looking for:
- Age, ownership, and organization of the company. Does it have multinational locations, or does it have any subsidiaries? Is it publicly owned and traded on a stock market or is it privately held?
- Products and/or services.
- Company's size by sales and number of employees.
- The company's growth pattern.
- New developments, such as new products or problems.
Armed with this knowledge, you will know at least generally how you would fit in with and contribute to the company and its goals.
Many companies have their own Web sites that include their latest annual report, which is a rich source for information about the company's most recent challenges and accomplishments. Realize that if the company you are researching is privately owned, information may be limited.
You may also want to search for articles printed about your target company in business publications or newspaper archives. Newspapers are a good resource especially if the company is privately owned but be careful to note the date of any articles. The fresher your information, the better.
If you will be doing some research at your library, here are some resources to explore:
- The Directory of Leading Private Companies. Provides information about thousands of private U.S. firms with more than USD 10 million in sales.
- Directory of Foreign Manufacturers in the U.S.
- Directory of Foreign Investment in the U.S.
- Standard and Poor's Register of Corporations, Directors and Executives.
- Moody's Manuals.