I’ve thought about all the ways I can say this nicely….but I really don’t have one. As a job candidate, you may not know all of the details about the role you’re interviewing for….I mean, that’s what an interview is for, right?  However, you must know the organization. There are no excuses. There’s no way around it.  You have access to so much information, it’s almost impossible NOT to know who they are and what they do. Seriously. Are you that disconnected and possess so little knowledge that you actually show up for an interview and explain that ‘X’ organization does something totally different than what is listed on the main page of their website?

How many times do I have to say it? Do your research BEFORE the interview. Don’t expect the recruiter to give you all the answers and provide a cheat sheet so that you pass the interview with flying colors. And your basic knowledge may not be enough…for example….did you know that Mars, Inc. doesn’t JUST sell candy? They sell pet food too!

Research is not Encyclopedia Britannica. It’s using your smart phone to Google information. It’s using Glassdoor to determine if you really want to work for ‘X’. It’s reviewing Twitter and LinkedIn and tapping your network. This is Interviewing 101. You know this.

Research. Know your stuff, or don’t show up.