Interview Preparation: Importance of Company Research

This article is first in a series of articles on Preparing for a Job Interview. Check back in to read more tips for questions to be prepared for in your interview!On your job hunt, once you've managed to secure an interview, you may already feel pretty accomplished. After all, you've found a job you feel suits you, completed an application, shared your resume and cover letter, and a potential new employer is interested in speaking further with you. It's a great position to be in. It's also the crucial point when preparation could propel you forward into a new position or lack of preparedness could hold you back. To seize the position you seek, there are many ways to indicate to an employer that you are prepared for the interview - and the job.

Prepare for a Job Interview by Conducting Company Research

Preparing for an interview should start as soon as you are offered one! One way to begin your preparation is to research the company that you are interviewing with and think about what you can offer that company and what you hope to gain from being employed at that company.If you haven't already, make sure you look at the company's website, their mission statement, their "About Us," and their social media. Know what they do and why they do it and be prepared to tell them why you want to be part of that. Begin compiling questions you have for them about the information they may not offer online, or which you would like them to expand upon. Come up with at least five open-ended questions to ask in your interview.Questions to Consider Asking in Your Interview:

• Are there opportunities for advancement?
• Can you describe your corporate culture?
• What challenges, if any, is the company facing?
• What are your plans for growth going forward?
• How many employees do you have company-wide?
• Who do you consider your direct competition?
• What types of skills are you seeking in your ideal candidate for this role?

Note: Use our Interview Prep Free Download to take note of your questions!

Tips for Preparing for your Senior Living Job Interview

Senior Living is similar to other industries in that your interview prep for a senior living job will take many of the same steps as listed above. In addition to the questions you've found above, you may consider some industry-specific questions to ask yourself and to consider before taking a job.

Senior Living Specific Questions to Consider Asking in Your Interview:

• What was your latest state survey score and how did your team address any issues found during the survey process?
• What would my role be in working with your residents?
• What specific training or certifications are required to do this job successfully? Is training provided?

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