Recently, we asked our network: "Before applying, how much time do you spend researching the company?" The responses varied, and they gave us an interesting look into the habits of job seekers. Here’s what the 108 voters shared:
It’s clear that most candidates are doing at least a bit of research, but how much is enough?
For the average job application, spending 10-30 minutes on research is a solid starting point. This time frame allows you to gather enough information to tailor your application while keeping things efficient. If you’re applying to multiple roles, balancing depth and breadth of research is key.
However, for roles that truly resonate with your career goals or are at a higher level, you may want to spend more time understanding the company. Being informed not only prepares you for the interview but also helps you make a genuinely informed decision about your fit with the company.
When researching a potential employer, start with the essentials on the company website. Check the About Us page to understand their mission and values - this can reveal if their purpose aligns with your own.
Then, dig into recent blog posts or news updates to gauge the company’s current priorities and projects. Have they won awards, launched new initiatives, or expanded into new markets? Knowing this can help you personalise your cover letter and prepare strong interview answers that reflect your genuine interest in their direction.
Don't overlook their social media presence, either. Platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook can give you a behind-the-scenes look at the company culture, team dynamics, and public interactions. A company that shares employee achievements, team-building events, and community involvement is likely to prioritise a positive workplace culture. Plus, you can see how they respond to public feedback, which may tell you a lot about their transparency and responsiveness. Social media is also an excellent place to find current trends and get a feel for their brand tone, which can help you determine if it aligns with your personality and values.
If you have extra time, look up employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor or Indeed. These can give you insights into what it’s really like to work there. Focus on common themes, such as work-life balance or management style. Consider checking Google reviews too, but keep in mind that reviews can be subjective.
Another overlooked area is researching the people you’d be working with, especially your direct manager or team members. LinkedIn is a great tool for this. Look at the profiles of people in similar roles or the leadership team to get a sense of their professional backgrounds and time with the company. Do they have a background similar to yours, or have they been with the company for a long time?
Understanding your potential team’s career paths can give you insights into the company’s values and career development opportunities. Leaders who actively engage on LinkedIn or social media often foster open communication within their teams, which may be something you value.
Investing time in research before applying isn’t just about having something to say during an interview - it’s about finding out if the role is genuinely a good match for you. Understanding the company’s direction, values, and work environment helps you decide if it’s a place where you’ll thrive. When you’re informed, it also comes across in interviews, demonstrating your interest and proactive nature.
Researching also equips you to ask better questions, which is a critical part of making a memorable impression. Inquiring about specific projects or mentioning a recent company achievement shows that you’re not just job-hunting but are genuinely interested in this job at this company.
At Eirkoo, we’re more than just recruiters. Based in Dublin, we’re here to support you in navigating the job market with confidence. Whether you’re seeking insights on company culture, prepping for interviews, or exploring your next career move, we’re ready to help make your job search both strategic and successful. Reach out to learn more about how we can support your career journey!
