Job hunting isn’t just about convincing a company to hire you, it’s also about making sure the company is right for you. The last thing you want is to accept an offer, only to realise three months in that you’ve walked into a workplace horror story. So, let’s talk about how to properly research a company before signing on the dotted line.

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Start with the Obvious: Their Website & Social Media

A company’s website is always going to highlight the best parts. Look beyond the corporate buzzwords and pay attention to how they describe their mission, values, and team culture. Then, check their social media. Are they celebrating employees’ achievements? Engaging with industry trends? Or does their LinkedIn page look like a ghost town? The way they present themselves online can tell you a lot about their work environment.

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Glassdoor and Employee Reviews: Take Them with a Pinch of Salt

Review sites like Glassdoor can be a goldmine, but don’t take everything at face value. A company with only glowing reviews might be filtering out the negatives, while a few bitter ex-employees could skew the overall picture. Look for common themes - if multiple people complain about poor leadership or lack of career growth, it’s probably a red flag.

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Stalk (Politely) on LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a great research tool. Check out current employees - what do they say about their roles? How long do people tend to stay? If the retention rate is less than a year, that could indicate high turnover. If you’re feeling bold, reach out to someone who works there and ask about their experience. A simple “Hey, I’m considering applying for [role] at [company], and I’d love to hear about your experience - any insights?” can go a long way.

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Company Culture: Decode the Clues

Culture isn’t just about office perks and dress codes. It’s about values, work-life balance, and management style. Look at job descriptions - do they mention endless ‘fast-paced environments’ and ‘wearing multiple hats’? Translation: Expect long hours and unclear job roles. If work-life balance matters to you, pay close attention to how they talk about flexibility and employee well-being.

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News & Financial Health: Are They Thriving or Just Surviving?

A quick Google search can reveal if a company has been in the news for all the wrong reasons - mass layoffs, lawsuits, or financial struggles. If they’re public, check their latest earnings report. If they’re private, see if they’ve been acquiring new clients, launching new products, or expanding. A company that’s struggling financially might not be the most stable place to grow your career.

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Trust Your Gut

Research is essential, but sometimes, your instincts matter just as much. If something feels off during the interview process, whether it’s vague answers about career progression or an interviewer who seems disengaged, listen to that feeling. The right company should align with your values, offer room for growth, and make you feel excited about your future there. Do your homework, ask the right questions, and make sure you’re saying yes to the right fit - not just the first offer that comes along.

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