Researching is necessary for your own career exploration and to prepare for interviews.
While researching industries, look for an alignment of your interests and factors including income potential, pathways for advancement, and work-life balance. Once you have narrowed your industry focus, you can look at specific companies within that industry. Ultimately, we hope that you will be able to participate in a job shadowing experience or an internship to inform your future career.
Get started with your industry and career research process.
Company Websites
Before interviewing with a company you should gather as much information as possible. Company websites should be your first stop but you must go deeper. Knowing the industry, competitors, and future outlooks are also important.
Social Media and “In the News”
Don’t discount the amount of information you can gain about company culture and current trends from social media and mentions in the news. Use Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and Google News to start.
Professional Organizations
Most industries have an association or organization that can provide an overview of an industry. It can also be a great resource for current industry trends, learning about industry leaders, and possible future forecasts. Many associations allow students to join for free or reduced rates, and some information is made available online for free.
Newsletters, Trade Publications and News
Depending on your area of interest, keeping up with current events through papers such as the Wall Street Journal, or industry specific magazines such as Ad Age, may be beneficial.