Years of hiring talent in the media business have helped me realize that many women simply haven’t been taught simple hiring tips that can make all the difference in an interview.

Inspired by the questions I often get from friends and acquaintances on how to get hired, I’ve compiled my top 10 tips for this How To Get Hired blog series, where I’ll explore—in detail—one tip at a time.

Let’s help you land that job you’ve always wanted!

Tip 2: Be a Social Media Stalker

No, I am not suggesting that you actually stalk someone because, let’s face it… that would just be weird. But I am suggesting that you spend an inordinate amount of time finding out all that you can about your target company, employees and most importantly, the hiring manager.

First, get friendly with Google.

Google has made it exceptionally easy for the candidates who actually want to take the time to do research. I promise you this: very few people take the time to complete this step— and this step is a game changer!

You want to know all that there is about pending projects, company awards, the founder of the company, and yes, the hiring manager.

Second, learn to love LinkedIn.

Review the profiles of key managers on LinkedIn; take time to review CrystalKnows.com and see what is being said about the hiring manager. Sharing feedback like this during the interview makes the interview more about the interviewer and shows that you have a genuine interest in them. This is the key to success in dealing with people—especially when you’re trying to get them to like you!

Third, know that the hiring manager is the real who’s who.

Do not be fooled by other titles! It is key that the hiring manager likes you. Your research on social media is to help you learn about them so you can see what connection points you have in common: Did they go to a big 10 school like you did? Do they have kids the same age as yours?  Did they grow up in the Northeast and major in business like you?

It is imperative that you find some common ground. Once you bring this up in the interview, you immediately begin to separate yourself from everyone else. If you can’t find anything online that gets you to that common ground sweet spot, you can always familiarize yourself with their background and tell them what about their career impresses you.

There is always something there, you just need to take the time to find it!

With a little prep work and a genuine interest in your target company and people who work there, your interview is off to a solid start. Stay tuned for more easy tips on how to get hired at your dream job.