Most candidates Google the manager's name and read their LinkedIn. That's the floor, not the ceiling. Here's the version that produces real interview leverage.
Minute 0-5. LinkedIn deep read.
Their full work history. What functions and industries have they worked in? What were the company stages, startup, growth, public? Pattern reveals what they value.
Minute 5-10. Their content.
LinkedIn activity, articles published, podcasts. Note: what topics do they care about? What language do they use? Specific examples they reference?
Minute 10-15. Their team's footprint.
Who reports to them on LinkedIn? What roles? What's the headcount and growth pattern? You learn the team shape and what gaps the role you're applying for fills.
Minute 15-20. Mutual connections.
Who do you both know? Which mutuals have worked with them? Reach out to 1-2 mutuals: "Going through interviews with [manager] next week. Anything I should know about how they like to work?"
Minute 20-25. Their company's strategy in their language.
Find a recent earnings call, all-hands video, or interview where this manager (or their manager) talks. Note specific phrases, metrics they cite, and challenges they name. Use that vocabulary in your interview.
The interview move that lands:
Reference one specific thing they've publicly said. "On your post about [topic], the point about [specific detail] resonated because [your relevant experience]. Wanted to share my take on [related thing]."
You're not flattering. You've genuinely paid attention. That's what stands out.
— Dr. Hosney Adel