Knowing your audience for job success

When searching for your next challenge, it is always imperative that you know not only what you’re applying for but also WHO you’re applying to. Every interview preparation should include company research that goes beyond company statistics and achievements.

You see, knowing your audience is not only beneficial in terms of impressing the employers with your knowledge of their company. It will help you as you decide what job is right for you. Here’s the thing you need to consider when approaching a big research session!

What should I research before a job application?

When you approach the job application, you should try to get some information before you even prepare to send it. This is to ensure you are confident going forward, and could see yourself working in that company. So we recommend a little bit about where the company is now, what the job role you want to fill can achieve for your career and if you resonate with the company culture.

Getting too deep into company research is a big no. Get the bare essentials for the application itself, or else you have all that time spent on research where there might not be a reply. Study the job specification and what responsibilities you will have. Use a creative tone of voice if the role is creative, for example. 

I’ve been called to meet the employers. What should I research?

The initial application was a success, well done! Now begins the real work to get to know your audience and wow them with your career prowess. Here’s what to consider:

• Who are you meeting? Is it one person or a whole panel? Sometimes you might not be warned of an extra person in the interview, but fear not. As long as you know who the relevant people are to your application, you will be fine. LinkedIn does not exist just for those hiring; use it to find out more about the people you will meet as well as the key players you might not.
• The company culture is very important. If you feel like it is the company for you, you have to show them why you fit their culture and values. Really think about why they resonate with you and show that passion in what you plan to say.
• The company product and service has to be something you can work with and relate to, or else you won’t wow the audience. Analyse what the company is offering, and how you could work with that confidently and efficiently.
• In order to keep conversations going and impress with insider knowledge, always keep up to date with industry news. Are there any recent developments that affect the company or what your job role will be? Being in the know means your words will reflect someone who loves their industry and all the recent news.

If you show your knowledge and enthusiasm through great research, the audience will be cheering for an encore! 

Ready to achieve career greatness?

Take a look at the latest ecommerce career tips