Directories
Directories are one way of locating information on both privately and publicly-held companies. Since information on publicly-held companies is more readily available, you will find more of these companies listed in directories. However, many privately held companies are willing to disclose some information about themselves. As you look through the Company Research Resources on this site, you will find a variety of company directories that include information on both privately and publicly-held companies.Corporate Web Sites
Corporate Web Sites have a ton of information. If a company you are researching has one, you should make it your first source. These sites often list job openings as well. You can use a search engine to search for a company's Web site.Company News
When researching privately and publicly-held companies, both large and small, the media is a great place to get lots of information. If companies don't report the information themselves, through press releases, reporters will get the information. This comes in handy when looking for something that the company may not necessarily want the public to know.Press Releases
Like an annual report, press releases present information in a way that appeals to the media, and in turn to the consumer. They are generally written by professionals who know how to make even the most damaging news somewhat palatable. If you need to find out newsworthy information about a company they are a good source.Local Newspapers
Local newspapers usually publish articles about companies in their city or town. This is often the only place you will find information on small, local companies. Some newspapers publish special business sections once a week. You will also find information about employees at those companies. Should someone win an award or special recognition, a local newspaper is where you would find it. You are probably wondering what this bit of trivia could mean to you. Well, imagine this scenario. You learn you are going to be interviewed by Joanne Manager. You do a little research and find out that she just won a 10 kilometer race. It just so happens that you're a runner as well. Isn't this a great way to establish rapport? In another case you receive a call from Stanley Numbercruncher, who wants to interview you for a great job in the accounting department. In your research you discover that Mr. Numbercruncher just won an award from the local chapter of Water Buffaloes. You'll knock him off his feet when you congratulate him on his achievement.National Newspapers
While the New York Times is not planning to change its name to the U.S. Times, it can serve as a source of national information. The same can be said of other newspapers across the country, like The Boston Globe, The Chicago Tribune, and The Washington Post, to name only a few. Articles on larger U.S. and international companies are featured in the pages of these publications. If something newsworthy happens you will probably find it in any large newspaper. Many are also available online.Business Journals
Business Journals are an excellent source of information as well. The most well known is The Wall Street Journal. There are also smaller, more local business journals. You can find information on local companies as well as companies with a wider geographic scope. These journals provide a good way of tracking who has moved where, what companies have what clients, and which companies are relocating to your area. Openings of new businesses should also be announced in a business journal.Industry Journals
These publications follow companies within different industries. If you are looking for employment opportunities within a specific industry this is a great way to become more knowledgeable about the industry in general. You can look at trends and upcoming changes to determine how you can best make an impact. Remember, you are trying to show potential employers what you can do for them.Professional Journals
These journals keep you apprised of goings on in your field. In addition to providing company information, professional journals give insight into changes in a particular field. These publications also contain advice about how to do your job better. Being able to discuss new medical billing software with the office manager of a doctor's office will show your level of expertise and interest in the field.
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Part 1: Why You Need Company Information
Part 2: Business Research 101
