Know Where You Want to Land: The Power of Target Company Research
The most common mistake job seekers make in their job search is that they are “fishing in too small of a pond.” They’ve identified 3-6 companies of interest and are investing all their time and energy in pursuing those roles.
This narrow focus limits your options, reduces your visibility to potential opportunities, and increases the risk of setbacks if those few roles don’t pan out. Savvy job seekers know that having at least 20 target companies is key to unlocking a wide range of opportunities and maximizing their chances of success.
Twenty companies might sound overwhelming, but that’s where target company research becomes your secret weapon. Think of it as the compass for your job search—helping you focus your energy on the right opportunities and paving the way to success.

Creating a robust target company list takes time. We recommend blocking off several hours at time to give yourself the mental space to go down rabbit holes. You want to give yourself the time to dive deeper than surface-level research to unearth adjacent, emerging, or under-marketed companies. Your best next opportunity might be with a company you’ve never heard of!
The target company spreadsheet will be expanded on over the course of this challenge – so download, update and keep it handy!
Target Company Research Resources
Why is Target Company Research So Crucial?
- Focus Your Efforts: Instead of scattering your energy across countless applications, you can hone in on companies that truly excite you.
- Uncover Hidden Opportunities: Many high-level roles are never publicly advertised. Researching target companies allows you to discover these hidden gems and tap into your network for potential introductions.
- Tailor Your Approach: Understanding a company’s culture, values, and challenges allows you to customize your resume and cover letter, demonstrating a genuine interest that sets you apart from the competition.
- Ace the Interview: When you’ve done your homework, you can walk into an interview with confidence, armed with insightful questions and a deep understanding of the company’s needs.
- Navigate Your Network: Knowing your target companies helps you identify connections within your network who can provide valuable insights or introductions.
Your Target Company List: Your Job Search Roadmap
At Briefcase Coach, we recommend curating a list of 20-35 companies that match your criteria – location, size, industry, and culture. This list becomes your job search roadmap, guiding you towards your ideal career destination.
Ready to Take Control of Your Job Search?
Download our Target Company Research Resources to learn how to identify your ideal companies, analyze their needs, and leverage your network for informational interviews. Remember, a focused job search is a successful job search.