Fail to prepare, prepare to fail

23rd April 2025

Why doing your research before a job application or interview can be a game changer

When it comes to job hunting, sending out a CV and attending a interview is only half the battle. 

If you want to get a competitive edge over the competition do your research!

In today’s competitive job market, candidates who understand the company they are applying to and tailor their approach accordingly are far more likely to land the position, fact.

In this article we will talk about why research is crucial and what can happen if you don’t do it. Plus, we’ll back it up with some data, so you can see for yourself. 

 
Why research is so important

1. It shows you're genuinely interested

Hirers can tell when a candidate has taken the time to understand the company. When you reference the company’s values, recent successes, or industry standing, it shows that you're not just looking for any job, you're interested in this job.

2. It helps you tailor your application

Every job posting will include subtle hints about what the employer wants. If you research the company’s mission, recent news, and job requirements, you will be able to customise your CV and cover letter to align perfectly with their goals.

3. You’ll perform better in interviews

The dreaded stereotypical question: “what do you know about our company?” is bound to be asked at some point during the interview process. If you haven’t prepared, that question can tank your confidence and the whole vibe of the interview. 

With some basic research, you can answer with confidence, impress the interviewer, and even ask smart questions of your own.

4. You can assess cultural fit

Not every company is the right place for everyone. Researching company reviews, values, and employee testimonials helps you figure out if the job aligns with your own values, career goals, and preferred work environment. Remember its not just you who is being interviewed!

What happens if you skip the research?

1. You might apply to companies who don’t align with your values (the wrong type of job)

Without proper research, you could waste time applying to companies whose values or work cultures don’t alight with your own. That’s a fast track to burnout, or worse, a job you hate. 

It’s worth remembering that most business have similar values and visions, we know the real world is often different from the utopian ones in the reception, but in a place of work we have to adapt our natural behaviour to align with the behaviours of our coworkers. If your basic values are misaligned in the first place you might struggle to adapt, so look before you leap or you might find yourself looking for another job before you know it!

2. You’ll come off as unprepared

In a survey by CareerBuilder, 47% of employers said they would not offer a job to a candidate if they had little knowledge about the company. Lack of research signals a lack of effort, which reflects poorly on your overall attitude.

3. Missed opportunities to stand out

Candidates who fail to research miss out on the chance to bring up relevant points—like how their previous experience ties directly to the company’s current goals. That can make the difference between getting a callback or not.

 
Researched advantage

Data from jobvite’s job seeker nation report and a topinterview and resume-library study highlight just how important preparation is:

87% of recruiters say that candidates who research the company make a better impression during interviews.
Candidates who did their homework were 78% more likely to receive a job offer than those who didn't.

In mock interviews, well-prepared candidates outperformed unprepared ones by more than 60% in perceived confidence, professionalism, and relevance of answers.
 
Final thoughts

Doing your research isn’t just about avoiding embarrassment, it’s about increasing your chances of success. In today’s job market, where first impressions often happen in minutes, the best way to stand out is to show up informed, prepared, and ready to connect.

So next time you find a job that looks interesting, don’t just fire off your CV. Spend half an hour researching the company’s mission, recent news, culture, and leadership. That small investment of time could be the very thing that lands you your next role.

 

Our office opening hours are Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 5pm.

Give us a call
01702 46 44 44