How to Research a Company for an Interview: Smart Steps to Take

Walking into an interview without researching the company is like showing up to a test without studying—you’re setting yourself up for failure. 

Employers want to see that you’re genuinely interested in the company, not just the job. That’s why knowing how to research a company for an interview is essential. Understanding their mission, values, and recent projects helps you tailor your responses, ask smart questions, and stand out as a prepared and thoughtful candidate. Plus, it’s a two-way street: Researching ensures that the company is the right fit for you, too. 

How to research a company for an interview

There are several ways to gather useful information before your interview. From company websites to industry news, here’s where to look.

Check the company website

Start with the company’s official website. Look at their “About” page, mission statement, and leadership team. Read through press releases and blog posts to get a sense of recent developments. If they have a careers page, check for insights into company culture and values.

Explore their social media

Follow the company on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Pay attention to the tone of their posts, the topics they highlight, and any major announcements. This gives you a sense of their brand personality and priorities.

Read employee reviews

Checking employee reviews can give you insights into workplace culture, management style, and potential red flags. Since reviews can be subjective, focus on common themes rather than isolated complaints.

Read this next: Curious about Workplace Culture? Ask These 7 Questions to Gain Insight

Research industry news

Check recent news, listen to podcasts, and read industry blogs to see what’s happening in the company’s field. This helps you understand their position in the market and any recent developments that might affect the role.

Look up your interviewer

If you know who you’ll be speaking with, look them up on LinkedIn. Understanding their background and role can help you find common ground and tailor your questions. You could also ask someone you know at the company for more insight into the interviewer’s role or professional background, which can provide useful context before the meeting.

Questions to ask about the company during an interview

Even after doing your homework, an interview is your chance to dig deeper and learn things you can’t find online. Here’s how to research companies on the spot:

1. “How would you describe the company culture beyond what’s shared on the website?” This helps you understand the day-to-day experience of employees.

2. “Can you tell me more about the team I’d be working with and how they collaborate?” This gives you an idea of the work environment and expectations.

3. “What does success look like in this role, and how do employees typically grow within the company?” This shows ambition and helps you gauge potential career paths.

4. “What are some current challenges the team or company is facing?” This shows you’re thinking critically and gives you a realistic view of what to expect.

Go beyond the basics

Researching a company before an interview isn’t just about impressing the hiring manager—it’s about making sure the role and company align with your goals. The more you know, the more confident and prepared you’ll feel walking into the conversation. So take the time to dig deep, ask thoughtful questions, and position yourself as a candidate who truly understands the company.