It is quite common knowledge I thought that most employment opportunities are not found on job boards however many job seekers spend most of their time looking at job boards only 20% of jobs are advertised on job boards.
I believe very strongly in company research as you need to have similar values and absolutely believe in what the company provides in services or products. Start with looking at business directories, in most major cities they will have an Economic Development Corporation, or it is called Workforce Development and Planning. These websites contain business directories, job boards, new city development and often other resources pertaining to specific industries. Check out the London Economic Development Corporation for example, www.ledc.com
Almost every major city has a Chamber of Commerce with business directories and networking opportunities under the events calendar for London check out http://www.londonchamber.com/
Another major resource is reading trade publications as they often will write about the newest technology, companies who have been given industry awards or post jobs in their magazines. You can order these publications at minimal or no costs check out www.tradepublications.ca
Also, the public library hosts many magazines, books and articles online or at the brick and mortar location for all kinds of information for company research, check out the library digital collection for magazines and databases. http://www.londonpubliclibrary.ca/page/digital-collection
There are reasons to do company research
- some companies will only advertise employment opportunities on their own website
- explore opportunities not advertised
- you find contact information
- arrange an informational interview
- network with people and managers
- gain valuable information when the interviewer asks you “what do you know about our company”
Mary Whitaker is a Career Coach at RITE Careers with 16 years’ experience. She has assisted many individuals in their career transition to their next employment opportunity. Check out her website for a complete description of all her services at www.ritecareer.ca
