We’ve posted this advice before, and we’re not afraid to do it again. Before you go on a job interview, do your research.

An interview comes with so much potential. It’s a chance to get your foot in the door with a great company, to show a side to your personality and experience that can’t be captured in a resume, and – of course – to completely drop the ball on a great opportunity.

Don’t miss out on the job of your dreams by failing to spend just 15-30 minutes on some simple research. The hiring manager is demonstrating an interest in what you may bring to their team, and it’s important that you – the interviewee – reciprocate. Here are some tips to get started:

• Be ready for the interview prep call with your recruiter. When your recruiter calls to help you prepare for the interview, listen. We know exactly what the company is looking for in a candidate, the key aspects of the position you’re interviewing for, and insight into how to best interview with the person you’re meeting. This information gives you an enormous advantage over other candidates and isn’t something you can get on your own.
• If possible, visit the restaurant. Yes – simply go out to eat, as a guest, at the restaurant at which you’re interviewing. Take note of the ambiance, the menu, and the service flow. Use your observations about the restaurant’s food and operations to show the hiring manager you’re serious about the position.
• Go online. Google the company with which you’re interviewing. If it has a website, review it for information on the company’s founders, history, menu, locations – you name it. If the company doesn’t have a website (or if it does, but you’re looking for extra credit), see if it’s mentioned in any articles or reviewed in local newspapers, magazines, or industry sites. Has it won an award? Hosted any notable events? Been featured in a big news story on in a national (or international) publication?

Not every interview will lead to a job offer, but don’t miss out on the opportunity because you can’t be bothered with research. It’s simple, and there’s no excuse to skip it (trust me, your interviewer will know if you have). Tap your resources and take some notes. Doing so could make all the difference.