About this Research Guide
This research guide covers a selection of information sources on (mainly) Canadian companies and industry sectors.
Click on the links in the left navigation bar for lists of items and links to online sources.
The guide is intended to help people who are researching companies or industries for assignments or in preparation for job interviews.
Unfortunately, all these sources are limited. For example,
- some directories cover only manufacturers and distributors but ignore service industries;
- some directories cover only major companies (e.g., those above a certain sales or profit level);
- only companies that are publicly traded on a stock exchange are required to publish annual reports and file disclosure documents.
Not even government agencies have a complete handle on existing businesses since not all businesses are required to register as companies, incorporate, or purchase a license.
But practically every business needs a telephone, and nowadays most business need to have a web site as well.
So if all else fails, the phone book and a web search engine like Google may give you the information you need, or at least a place to start.
If you are preparing for an interview, don't be afraid to approach the company itself for information. Your willingness to do so may be to your benefit in the interview. But be truthful about why you are contacting the company -- don't waste staff time by pretending to be a customer.
If you can't find information on a company, focus your research on the industry, or other companies in the same field.
The information you find will tell you something about the business conditions and competition faced by the company or companies you are particularly interested in.
Whenever you run into trouble, ask for help at the Information Desk.
