Landing an international job is an exciting opportunity—but also a competitive one. Whether you’re applying for a remote position or preparing to relocate, success depends not only on your skills but on how well you understand the company you’re interviewing with.

The research process is an essential part of any candidate’s preparation. It requires curiosity, attention to detail, and a structured approach. Yet, with so much information available online, many candidates struggle to know where to start or how to use their findings effectively.

In this guide, ZIVA will walk you through a clear, step-by-step strategy to research companies before your international interview—so you can make a memorable impression and feel confident in every conversation.

Why Company Research Matters

Doing your homework before an interview isn’t just about avoiding awkward silences—it’s about showing that you’re invested, informed, and aligned with the company’s values and goals.

According to Glassdoor, 53% of job seekers look for more company information after reading a job post. This means most candidates want to understand not just what the role is, but who they’ll be working for.

Even more telling, 75% of job seekers consider an employer’s brand before applying for a position, according to CloudHire. In other words, your research can make the difference between applying to a company that matches your goals—or wasting time on one that doesn’t.

Step 1: Build an International Network

Start your research by connecting with professionals who can give you real-world insights. The most valuable information about a company often comes from people who work (or have worked) there.

If you’re looking for international experience, reach out to:

• Former employees on LinkedIn for honest feedback about the company’s culture.
  
• Alumni from your school who work abroad.
  
• Mentors or professional contacts who have experience in your target country.
  

Don’t be afraid to ask thoughtful questions like:

• “What’s the company culture like?”
  
• “How does the team collaborate across time zones?”
  
• “What would you recommend I learn about before the interview?”
  

These insights go beyond what you’ll find on a company’s website—and they’ll help you stand out by showing genuine curiosity and initiative.

Step 2: Research the Basics

Once you’ve built your network, it’s time to gather key information about the company. This includes:

• Company mission and values – found on their “About Us” page or annual report.
  
• Products or services – understanding what they sell or deliver will help you connect your skills to their goals.
  
• Recent news and achievements – check their press releases or blog for updates.
  

LinkedIn is one of your best tools for this. It’s where most recruiters and hiring managers operate, and where you can easily see company updates, employee profiles, and job openings. According to Omnicore Agency, LinkedIn now has over 1 billion users, making it the go-to platform for professional networking and research.

Search for your interviewer’s profile and take note of their background. A shared university, location, or mutual connection can help you build rapport during the interview.

Step 3: Understand the Company’s Work Environment

International interviews often involve different expectations when it comes to work style, communication, and flexibility. Before you apply or interview, make sure the company’s setup fits your lifestyle and preferences.

According to a Gallup study from May 2025, 71% of professionals now prefer jobs with remote or hybrid options. In the U.S., 51% of remote-capable employees work in a hybrid arrangement, while 28% work exclusively remotely.

Understanding whether a company operates remotely, hybrid, or on-site helps you tailor your expectations—and your questions. For example:

• “How does your company support international employees working across time zones?”
  
• “What does a typical day look like for remote team members?”
  

Knowing this in advance shows that you’re proactive and serious about fitting into the organization’s rhythm.

Step 4: Research Company Culture and Values

Culture fit is one of the most overlooked—but most important—factors in job satisfaction. A great salary or title won’t mean much if you don’t enjoy the environment you’re in.

Here’s how to evaluate a company’s culture:

• Visit their social media: See how they communicate, celebrate achievements, and represent their employees.
  
• Read reviews on Glassdoor: Pay attention to recurring themes—both positive and negative.
  
• Look for diversity and inclusion efforts: Global companies that prioritize these values often provide a more supportive and innovative environment.
  

During your interview, you can reflect your understanding of the culture by saying something like:

“I noticed your company recently launched an initiative focused on employee well-being. That aligns with my own approach to maintaining work-life balance.”

Small details like this make your answers sound thoughtful and tailored—not rehearsed.

Step 5: Analyze the Industry and Competitors

Knowing about the company’s industry trends and competitors can give you a strategic edge. It helps you speak confidently about challenges and opportunities the company might face.

For instance, if you’re interviewing with a tech company, research how emerging technologies or AI regulations might affect their operations. For marketing or communication roles, learn how global trends are influencing customer engagement.

You can find this information through:

• Google News and industry journals.
  
• Competitor websites to understand market positioning.
  
• Professional associations that publish reports or insights.
  

Bringing up this knowledge in your interview shows that you’re not only qualified but also forward-thinking—a quality every international employer values.

Step 6: Prepare Questions That Reflect Your Research

At the end of most interviews, you’ll be asked:

“Do you have any questions for us?”

This is your moment to shine. Avoid generic questions like “What’s the next step in the process?” Instead, use your research to ask insightful ones, such as:

• “I noticed your company recently expanded to Asia. How has that impacted your global strategy?”
  
• “Your team has grown significantly over the past year—how do you maintain collaboration across different regions?”
  
• “I saw that your company values innovation. Can you tell me how that translates into day-to-day work?”
  

These questions demonstrate preparation, strategic thinking, and cultural awareness—all key traits for an international role.

Step 7: Reflect and Organize What You’ve Learned

Finally, take time to organize your notes. Create a simple document or spreadsheet summarizing:

• Key facts about the company.
  
• Cultural or operational insights.
  
• Questions you plan to ask.
  

This will help you review efficiently before the interview and ensure your talking points are fresh in your mind.

If you’re applying to multiple international companies, this step is even more valuable—it helps you keep track of details and avoid confusion between employers.

Preparing Today for an International Tomorrow

Researching a company before an international interview is not just a formality—it’s a strategic investment in your career. It shows respect for the opportunity, demonstrates cultural awareness, and helps you decide whether the company truly aligns with your goals.

By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll transform your interview preparation from surface-level to standout.

And if you’re looking to take your global career to the next level, ZIVA is here to help.

Ready to Stand Out in Your Next Interview?

ZIVA connects talented candidates like you with international opportunities that match your skills, ambitions, and values. From interview preparation to remote work placement, our team helps you build a meaningful global career.

Visit ZIVA today and start your journey toward your next international job.