Finding Company Information: Use This 5-Minute Hack

Let’s say you’re not using AI tools to personalize your cover letter. No problem—there’s still a fast, effective way to tailor your message manually in five minutes or less.

This is the exact method I’ve used (and coached others to use) to stand out—even when applying cold to competitive roles in pharma, academia, and biotech.

Here’s the Hack:

1. Google the company name + keywords like:
   “news,” “blog,” “press release,” “about us,” or “mission statement.”

2. Skim for something recent or interesting—a clinical trial launch, a new funding round, a research breakthrough, or even a core value they emphasize.

3. Find a connection point between that info and your experience or interest. This gives you a personalized hook for your opening paragraph.

Why It Works for Biostatistics Roles

You’re applying for jobs in research-driven, data-heavy environments. Whether it’s a hospital, a biotech startup, or a university department, they want people who “get” their mission—not just people who can code in R.

A single sentence that references their recent work signals two powerful things:

• You’ve done your homework

• You’re not just applying to every job with the same letter

Hiring managers notice this kind of detail because so few applicants actually do it.

💡 Action Step: Find Your Personal Hook
Pick one job you’re applying for and Google the company name + “news” or “about us.” Find one sentence or idea you genuinely connect with. Then, write a single personalized line that could be used to open your cover letter. Keep it relevant, respectful, and real—it doesn’t need to be flashy, just thoughtful.