Whether you're applying for a job in Poole, Bournemouth, or elsewhere in Dorset, one thing’s certain - preparing for your interview starts with researching the company.

At Poole Together, we speak to hundreds of local candidates every month. One of the biggest differences between successful and unsuccessful interviews? How well the candidate knows the employer.

If you're serious about landing that dream role in Dorset, here’s why company research matters - and exactly how to do it.

✅ Why Researching the Company Matters in Dorset

Dorset businesses pride themselves on local knowledge, strong values, and community involvement. From growing tech firms in Bournemouth to heritage brands in Poole, each company has its own story - and employers expect you to know it.

Here’s what researching a company does for you:

• Shows you're genuinely interested in their business, not just any job.
  
  
• Helps tailor your answers to fit their company culture.
  
  
• Boosts your confidence during the interview.
  
  
• Lets you ask informed questions, which always impresses.
  
  

🔍 6 Ways to Research a Dorset-Based Employer Before Your Interview

1. Start with Their Website

Local employers often showcase:

• Their mission and values
  
  
• Community initiatives (very common in Dorset businesses)
  
  
• Latest projects or success stories
  
  

Tip: Check if they mention any local partnerships or events - great conversation points during the interview.

2. Use LinkedIn (Even for Smaller Dorset Firms)

Not every company in Dorset has a huge LinkedIn following - but their staff might.

Look up:

• The company profile
  
  
• Your potential manager’s profile
  
  
• Any shared content about local initiatives or team culture
  
  

3. Google the Company + Dorset News

Search for:

• Company name + “Poole” or “Bournemouth”
  
  
• Local press like the Daily Echo, Bournemouth Echo, Find Dorset Places or Dorset Biz News
  
  
• Any recent announcements or changes (e.g. new office, awards, contracts)
  
  

4. Check Reviews on Glassdoor or Indeed

Even small companies in Dorset may have employee reviews. Look for patterns:

• Do employees mention strong leadership?
  
  
• Is the company culture praised?
  
  
• Any red flags?
  
  

Use what you find to ask smart, respectful questions if needed.

5. Follow Them on Social Media

Lots of Dorset employers are active on:

• Facebook (especially family-run or local service businesses)
  
  
• Instagram (great for retail, food, and hospitality)
  
  
• LinkedIn (professional updates)
  
  

See how they talk about their work - this gives you a clue to the company tone and values.

6. Revisit the Job Description

Often overlooked, but crucial. Use it to:

• Match your experience to their needs
  
  
• Spot keywords or values you can echo in your answers
  
  
• Prepare examples relevant to the role and company goals
  
  

💡 Dorset-Specific Interview Tips from Poole Together

• Mention local knowledge - If you're from the area, share why you’re excited to work locally.
  
  
• Show understanding of Dorset’s business culture - Many companies here value community, work-life balance and long-term loyalty.
  
  
• Highlight any Dorset-specific achievements - Have you worked with local charities, events, or projects? Employers love that.
  
  

🎯 Final Thoughts

Job interviews aren’t just about showing up - they’re about showing up prepared. Researching your potential employer gives you an edge, especially in Dorset, where personal connections and local knowledge count for a lot.

At Poole Together, we’re here to support you at every stage of your job search - from CV tips to interview prep. If you’re ready to take the next step in your Dorset career, here’s how.

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