Whether you’re hiring a contractor, working with a healthcare provider, or choosing a financial advisor, you’re entering into a relationship built on trust. Before you sign an agreement or hand over personal information, it’s worth taking time to learn more about the company you’re considering.
Doing your own research can help you confirm that a business is legitimate, reliable, and a good fit for your needs. Here’s a step-by-step look at how to approach the process.
1. Start With the Basics
The first step is to verify the company’s basic details:
- Legal business name.
- Physical location.
- Contact information.
- Years in business.
You can usually find this information on the company’s official website, but it’s wise to cross-check it on third-party sources to ensure it matches. Mismatched or incomplete information could be a red flag.
2. Use Professional Databases
Platforms like ZoomInfo compile business information, including company size, industry focus, and leadership details. These resources can be especially useful for learning about a firm’s history and structure before you engage with them.
For example, you can view TruNorth Advisors on ZoomInfo to see key company details in one place. Looking up a business in these types of directories can help you confirm you’re dealing with a legitimate organization.
3. Check Independent Reviews and Ratings
While no company can please every customer, consistent patterns in reviews can tell you a lot. Sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Google Reviews offer insight into past client experiences. Pay attention to:
- How the company responds to negative feedback.
- The frequency and recency of reviews.
- Any trends in praise or complaints.
Reviews can help you understand what the business does well and where it might fall short.
4. Verify Licenses and Credentials
If you’re hiring a professional service provider such as a financial advisor, contractor, or healthcare practitioner, confirm that they hold the appropriate licenses or certifications. For financial advisors, this could mean checking FINRA’s BrokerCheck or the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure database.
Licensing requirements vary by industry and location, so make sure you know what’s required for the type of service you need.
5. Research the Leadership Team
Knowing who runs the company can offer insight into its values, stability, and expertise. You can often find leadership bios on the company’s website or through professional networking platforms like LinkedIn. Look for consistent industry experience and a track record of ethical practices.
6. Look Into Community Involvement
A company that invests in its local community often demonstrates stability and a commitment to more than just the bottom line. Community engagement can include charitable partnerships, educational programs, or sponsorship of local events.
While this may not be a deciding factor, it can be a good sign of a company’s overall character.
7. Trust Your Impressions
Finally, your interactions with the company should leave you feeling comfortable and respected. Pay attention to how promptly they respond to inquiries, how clearly they communicate, and whether they take the time to understand your needs.
A professional and transparent first impression often signals the type of relationship you can expect moving forward.
Putting It All Together
Researching a company before becoming a client doesn’t have to be complicated, but it should be thorough. Combining basic fact-checking with a review of independent sources, credential verification, and personal impressions can help you make an informed choice.
Whether you’re evaluating a service provider in person or online, the time you spend now can save you from potential problems later and help you build relationships with businesses that truly meet your needs.
