It is important to establish realistic research goals since company information varies in quantity depending on the type of company.
- Public Companies: SEC financial filings, numerous press releases, earnings calls, media events, conference presentations, mentioned in national press (Wall Street Journal, USA, Time, Fortune)
- Private Companies: No SEC financial filings, few press releases or public events, mentioned in regional/local press (Crain's Detroit Business, local newspapers, etc.)
For either type of company, these are some core things to look for:
- Established (when, where, by whom)
- Public or private company
- Services or products
- Customers
- Industry status
- SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)
- Future plans for growth
- Culture
- Hiring practices (contract employee vs regular employee status)