What do I do if I know nothing about the company?

Knowledge is mandatory — not optional. Going into an interview without basic knowledge signals a lack of interest. Minimum preparation (30 minutes): Website (products, clients, employee count), current news (Google News), Glassdoor/kununu (reviews and interview reports), LinkedIn page (growth, news, profile of your interviewer). If you have to go into an interview spontaneously: Honesty about research still outstanding, combined with genuine interest in the role, protects more than pretending to know. Cedefop Germany 2025 shows: Employers rate willingness to learn and genuine motivation higher than rehearsed presentations.