I thus wasn't particularly surprised to receive the following email at one of my addresses -
Dear FRED SMITH,Given that the 'Fred Smith' at the particular address has no achievements whatsoever and indeed does not exist we might wonder about reliance "by business leaders, journalists, academics, and other professionals" on the "prestigious" directory's "accuracy and currency of information".
It is my pleasure to inform you that you are being considered for inclusion in Who's Who in the World, 28th Edition (2011).
From the publisher of Who's Who in America since 1899, Who's Who in the World is relied upon by business leaders, journalists, academics, and other professionals for its accuracy and currency of information. It continues to be recognized as the world's premier biographical reference source, and is found in the collections of many of the world's leading libraries and corporations.
To be considered for inclusion as a listee in this prestigious publication, you need only provide the requested information by completing the Biographical Data Form by June 21, 2010 ...
Your information will be evaluated according to selection standards Marquis Who's Who has developed over 110 years as the world's premier biographical publisher. If you are selected for the new 2011 Edition, we will contact you prior to the book's release in November 2010.
Being honored in Who's Who in the World offers you:
- An authoritative summary of your credentials for business contacts
- An historical archive of your achievements, recorded for generations to come
- Exclusive offers only available to members of Marquis Who's Who
I congratulate you on the achievements that have brought your name to the attention of our editorial committee. We look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Fred Marks
Editor-in-Chief
P.S. Inclusion in Who's Who in the World, of course, carries neither cost nor obligation to you of any kind. Our goal is to have full representation of noteworthy men and women across all fields and industries.
The phantom Fred Smith is delighted to be counted with "noteworthy men and women across all fields and industries" and to receive the editor's congratulation "on the achievements that have brought your name to the attention of our editorial committee". Less puffery in building a database might however enhance the credibility of "the world's premier biographical publisher".
