Know Your Audience
Do your homework. Before you begin to select companies to target, identify trends in the industries in which you are interested. Which industries are trending toward growth? Which are declining? Do some general information gathering online and check the Occupational Outlook Handbook and specific industry associations for future predictions.

Target and Research Companies
Now decide where you would like to work. Search company Web sites for mission statements, product and service information, principals' backgrounds and contact information. Check public company financials through the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Ask the reference librarian about connections to investor online publications or services, such as Valueline, Lexis-Nexis. Read and/or check online resources for major business publications, such as Forbes, Money, Kiplinger's, The Wall St. Journal, or Investors Business Daily.

Single Out Executives
Getting a job is often who you know to help you get your foot in the door. If your college offers a searchable online database, search by company name. Contact any alumni who work for that company. Choose fairly recent graduates (to learn about the interview and hiring process, and early experiences on the job) and older alumni as well (to learn about corporate culture, history, and career paths.) All alumni contacts are valuable for their insights as well their connections. Always come away from any networking meeting with at least two additional contacts.

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