Why You Should Research Before the Interview

There are lots of resources pointing out that the research before actually going to an interview is crucial. I am perfectly aware of that; however, once I didnt research because I presumed I know enough.

I found about a job opening at a local company. The town I live in is pretty small, so I decided I know all about the company already from what people have told me. So I sent my CV and waited.

The company contacted me the same day. They reached me by phone and invited me to be at their office at 10 next morning. There was a girl on the phone who nicely offered me to tell me the exact office location. I asked her “Are you the plastics producing company?” She said yes, we are, and I said dont bother then, I know where to come.

The next day I got up, went to the place presumed and stood at the portal. The guard went out, asked me why I had come and let me in the building. I knocked on a door and asked where exactly in the building is Mr Joness office. They gave me directions. Still I saw they look a bit surprised.

I found the office of the manager with whom the interview was arranged. I knocked at the door and he let me in. I presented myself and began explaining why I had applied for the job telling about my qualifications.

The man sat there looking a bit embarrassed but just listened. I thought “What am I doing wrong?” and I asked. He said, “Your qualifications are fine and you would be a very good candidate IF we had such a job opening”.

Now it was my turn to get confused. I told him I saw an ad, I responded and was contacted by his secretary. He asked me “Which company you said placed the ad?” The small plastics producer, I said. Oh I see, the man answered. Actually there are two of us; my name is Jones and the manager of the other company is Jones too; heres why you were admitted to my office. But I dont have this opening, its in the other company”.

I felt awful. Who wouldnt be? I just believed that in such a small town people knew everything and there was only one company of this kind. How wrong I was!

Fortunately a few minutes later I got a call from the actual Mr Jones who said he was late, but still wanted to meet me half an hour later. I got lucky and didnt miss the interview. I just wish I had done more research- I didnt even ask about the other companys name.

Why You Should Research Before the Interview