Researching a prospective employer: What you need to know, how to find it, and why it matters

When you’re looking for a job, one of the most powerful things you can do is research the employers you’re applying to. Understanding a company’s values, goals and culture helps you tailor your application, feel more confident in interviews, and figure out whether the job is a good fit for you.

At CoAct, we know that preparation pays off, especially when you’re trying to stand out in a competitive job market. This guide walks you through what to look for when researching a company, where to find that information, and why it’s such a smart move for job seekers.

Why employer research matters

Doing your homework before applying for a job shows initiative, professionalism and genuine interest. It helps you:

• Write a better application – You can align your skills and experience with what the employer values

• Prepare for interviews – You’ll be ready to answer questions like “Why do you want to work here?”

• Decide if it’s the right job for you – Understanding the work culture and expectations helps you make informed choices

• Build confidence – When you know more, you feel more in control and less nervous during the hiring process

What you need to know

You don’t need to know everything, but here are the six key things to look out for:

1. What the company does – Its products, services, or mission

2. Their values and culture – What they stand for and how they work

3. Who their customers or clients are – Gives insight into the business and your potential role

4. Company size and locations – Helps you understand the work environment

5. Any recent news or updates – Growth, changes, achievements or community projects

6. Current job openings – What roles they hire for and the skills they commonly need

Where to find this employment information

There’s no single source, but a combination of the following will give you a strong overview:

• The company website
  Start with the “About Us” section. Look for their mission statement, values, history, and team. The careers or jobs page will give you clues about what they’re looking for in candidates.

• Job ads
  Even if you’re not applying yet, job descriptions tell you a lot about what skills they value and what the day-to-day work is like.

• Social media
  LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and even YouTube can give you a behind-the-scenes look at their culture, team events, and how they communicate.

• Company reviews
  Sites like Seek, Glassdoor and Indeed feature employee reviews and salary insights. Read with a critical eye, one or two negative reviews don’t tell the whole story, but trends can be revealing.

• News articles and media mentions
  A quick Google News search of the company name can show you recent achievements, business challenges, or changes in leadership.

• Ask around
  If someone in your network has worked there or knows someone who has, don’t be afraid to ask for their honest perspective.

How to use what you find

Once you’ve gathered your research, use it to:

• Tailor your cover letter and resume – Match your skills and language to what the company values

• Prepare thoughtful questions for the interview – For example: “I noticed your team recently worked on [project]. Can you tell me more about how that impacts this role?”

• Show enthusiasm and initiative – Referencing your research shows you’re proactive and serious about the opportunity

We’re here to support you

You don’t have to do this alone. CoAct’s team can guide you through the research process, help you understand what to look for, and support you with writing and interview preparation as part of our IEA and WFA programs. Get in touch with us for tailored support on your job search journey.

(Disability Employment Services Australia (DES) has now been replaced by Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA).