Knowing and
understanding the potential employers to which you are sending resumes is key
to gaining an edge on the competition.
Employers want skilled workers, but they also want someone who can fit
into their company, and part of fitting in is understanding what makes the firm
tick. Below are a few tips on how
to find the information you need:
1.
Job
candidates must keep up with industry trends. Read industry news and publications. Use the internet but don’t rely totally
on online news outlets, take the time to visit your local library and read the
trade publications once a week.
2.
Visit
the company’s corporate website, blogs and read their press releases. If possible, connect with them on
social network sites such as Leopard Pride (http://pride.leopardsolutions.com/).
3.
Set
up an informational interview with companies you are targeting in your job
search. Informational interviews can be with current employees or former
employees who have recently moved on.
But be careful, if interviewing with former employees make sure they
have only recently left the company and find out why the departed.
4.
Is
the company you’re targeting in your job search active in the community? If so,
attend events where they will have a presence. Take the time to chat with company representatives at their
booth and find out what you can about the company in casual conversation. One
caveat: Networking events and social gathers are not the time to push your
resume on employers; however be prepared just in case a resume is requested.