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    • 5 days ago
    • 3 min read

Mastering the Art of Interview Preparation: Your Guide to Researching Like a Pro

Hey there, future industry leaders! 👋


As the CEO of Advize, I've been on both sides of the interview table more times than I can count. Trust me when I say that thorough research before an interview can be your secret weapon to landing that dream job or internship. So, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of how to research effectively before your big day!


Why Research Matters


Before we jump in, let's talk about why research is crucial. Picture this: You walk into an interview armed with in-depth knowledge about the company, the role, and even your potential team. You're not just answering questions; you're having an informed conversation. That's the power of research – it transforms you from a candidate to a standout contender.


Now, let's break down what you should be researching:


1. The Company: Know Their Business Inside Out


  • Industry Deep Dive: What sector does the company operate in? Is it an industry you're passionate about? *Advize Pro Tip: Use our platform to watch Advizers answer questions like "What do you like about this industry?" and "What do you find challenging about this industry?" Filter responses to match your interests and learn how to discuss the business like a pro!

  • Recent News: Has the company been in the headlines lately? Good news or bad news – both are important to know.

  • Company Culture: What values does the company promote? Do they align with your own?


2. The Boss and Team: Your Potential New Work Family


  • Team Dynamics: Try to figure out who would be on your potential team. What are their backgrounds? 

  • Longevity: Have team members stayed for 2+ years? This can be a good sign of job satisfaction.

  • Diversity: Does the team reflect diversity? If you don't see people who look like you, it might be worth considering why.

  • Advize Insider Tip: Use LinkedIn and Advize to perform this research. Our platform allows you to filter professionals by various traits and identities, giving you a clearer picture of representation within companies.


3. Company Website and Online Presence: The Public Face


  • Company Narrative: What story does the company tell online? 

  • Client Base: Who are their major clients or customers?

  • Reviews and Reputation: Check out customer reviews, but remember to take Glassdoor reviews with a grain of salt. Sometimes, the loudest voices are the most disgruntled.


4. Role-Specific Preparation: Become the Expert


Here's where you can really shine! Most candidates, especially undergrads, don't fully grasp what a role entails. Make this your strength!


  • Job Description Deep Dive: Read it - but, you can only get so much from a job description... sometimes, they don't seem to make tangible sense or are very high level.

  • Day in the Life: Use Advize to find professionals in similar roles. Watch them answer questions like "What's a day in the life?" and "What skills are most important in your role?" Nothing beats learning directly from the professionals themselves!

  • Skill Alignment: Prepare examples of how your skills match what they're looking for. Listen to how Advizers on our platform share examples of skills they believe are important so you can brainstorm your own!

  • Advize Game-Changer: Our platform has over 7,000 career interview clips. Use this goldmine to understand role nuances and prepare like a pro!


Putting It All Together


Remember, the goal isn't just to memorize facts. It's to understand the company, the role, and how you fit into their story. Use this research to craft thoughtful questions that show you've done your homework.


For example, instead of asking "What's the company culture like?", you could say, "I noticed your company values innovation. Can you tell me about a recent project that exemplifies this?"


Final Thoughts


Thorough research isn't just about impressing your interviewer (although it definitely does that!). It's about ensuring that this opportunity is the right fit for YOU. After all, you're not just looking for any job – you're looking for the next exciting chapter in your career journey.


So, are you ready to research your way to success? Remember, Advize is here to support you every step of the way. Our platform is designed to give you insider insights that can make all the difference in your interview prep.


Now go out there and show them what you're made of! 💪🚀


Happy researching, and best of luck on your interviews!


Emily McSherry

CEO, Advize


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