Research
Research is a very important aspect of the job searching. You must determine what companies you would like to work for. You must also examine what types of jobs are available, by looking at various Job Titles. In addition you must look at job descriptions in detail to determine exactly what the requirements of the job are.
Check the Company Website
Most companies have a website. The main page of a company's website will give you an overall idea of the image they want to project. The company will often include their mission statement or purpose, their values, and their goals. Ideally, you should share their values, which is an important factor in working for the company. Their website will also describe related business functions or activities. In addition, and internal job postings can usually be found on a company's website.
Use the Library
Scott's, Fraser’s and Vernon Directories and many other resources are available in the Career section of the library at Mohawk College and in other libraries across the country. These directories list companies in the field you are pursuing and provide good information about them. Details can be found on what they actually do and their line of business, the number of employees, names of individuals who represent the organization and many other company specific details. Reference books are invaluable resources when researching companies.
Check the Telephone Book
Do not forget that your telephone book is also good resource. Aside from getting the mailing address, postal code, fax and telephone number, you may find a map or directions to their location. Even small companies without a website might have an ad in the yellow pages. These ads often give you interesting information about what that company is proud of or known for. For example, an ad might say "Serving the Hamilton community since 1931". They are obviously proud of having been in business for 80 years. There are not many companies that can boast about surviving that long, and their management strategies must be solid. This statement may also mean they are proud of being a community oriented business, a neighbourhood business, and a local business. Do you share these values?
Visit the Company in Person
Find out where they are located and drop into the reception area to see what is available. You might see an award hanging on the wall for a special accomplishment. It could be an award for outstanding beautification of their property, or the number of safe hours worked without injury to their staff. You might pick up a copy of their year end report, or see a newspaper clipping or magazine article that they are proud of and have on display. You might even pick up a brochure on what they actually do, produce, or manufacture.
There are many of ways to collect information to create a good cover letter and to prepare for an interview. A popular question is "What did you do to prepare for this interview?" or "Tell us what you know about our company". Be prepared with a little research.
