Job Interview Preparation

This database provides possibly the best broad introduction to an industry. These industry reports (searchable by keyword, or NAICS code) include information on: industry performance and outlook, key external drivers, key buying and selling industries and demand determinants, market share concentration, barriers to entry, basis of competition, major companies, operating conditions including pending regulations and key statistics. We have US industry reports, some specialized industry reports (mainly emerging industries), China industry reports and some global industry reports.

Mergent Intellect has great company information as well, but from the homepage you can click on the First Research link/icon to access First Research industry reports. These reports include a quarterly industry update, top related news stories and social media postings, an industry forecast, information on critical issues, business challenges and business trends, an 'Executive Insight' section with information on the top concerns for major executives in the industry, and call preparation questions to assist in an informational interview.

This database is focused on venture capital and angel investment information. It can be useful to know about major deals currently at play in your industry, up and coming companies, etc.

This database is one of the only sources for local industry information. Reports include profit and loss statements, three year industry market trends, industry volume and average sales, competitive market analyses and customer demographics. Availability of reports and data will vary based on how small your geographic area, or how precise your competitor criteria. (Smaller geographies and more narrowly defined competitors will yield less information, generally speaking.)

There is a more limited selection of industries available in this database, but if you find yours the reports dive into the price environment, supply market characteristics, tips for negotiating... This is really geared more to someone starting or running their own business, but potentially useful to understanding the challenges of a company you're looking to join.