Career Prep 2009 Summer Blog

Lola Ajayi of The George Washington University offers, “in order to evaluate my company, the first step should be to carefully examine the company’s website. Check to see their principles and key words that stand out on their website. Does the company’s mission reflect what you believe? Evaluating the company also entails evaluating the people who comprise the company. Begin by talking to people in your department. Become aware of the organizational culture-how do people interact in the office? What kinds of traits and personalities do you see? Is it representative of you? Figuring out if the company is the right fit for you takes time. Examine all aspects of the company and then examine yourself. Is there any correlation?”

While Dominique Mungin (Georgetown University) says to evaluate the company on three levels: professional, social, and personal. One of the most flexible tips would be to talk to people in different departments about the company and their experience working for it. Professionally, ask yourself if the position is stimulating and engaging. Do you feel that your talents are/would be utilized at this company? Try to speak to employees that have the positions that you would be applying for and ask them questions about their jobs and time there. Socially, ask yourself if you like the environment. Is the atmosphere one in which you feel comfortable? Are the employees people that you would be able to work well with over a long period of time? Personally, ask yourself if you feel that this company would be fulfilling for your career goals. Is the location suitable? Are there opportunities for advancement what you want?”