Online Research Tools Learn everything you can about people you think should be interested in the solutions you provide. Some of the best ways to research people on the web include:
Google The most comprehensive search engine on the internet. Listings are highly relevant with its results putting Lycos, HotBot and other engines to shame. If you use only one search tool, this is the one to use. And don’t forget to search news sources too, using GoogleNews.
http://www.google.com
http://news.google.com/
Hoovers Search by company to get a capsule of the business, financials and list of top personnel. Or sign up for a minimal annual cost to get detailed information on top executives. Even includes current salaries in some cases. One of the best tools for doing your homework prior to contacting potential clients.
http://www.hoovers.com/
IntroNetworks Web based software to help make connections with others who share your interests and can help you. Designed for company and conference use. My wife tested it out in conjunction with a graphic design conference she attended and it is appealing and easy to use. Recommended for every large company or professional conference.
www.intronetworks.com One-Minute Web Guide A masterful collection of the best web links for news, business, culture. Even includes a category of professional search tools. If a search tool isn’t listed here, you probably don’t need it.
http://www.ancientthespians.com/
PR Newswire Search press releases to get the official party line on a company or executive. Of course if they want to keep a low profile they won’t be here.
http://www.prnewswire.com/news/
StockMarketYellowPages Search for financial and descriptive snapshots of public companies. StockMarketYellowPages provides a easy to use doorway to the top twenty financial information providers.
http://www.StockMarketYellowPages.com/ Yahoo If you are looking for categories of prospects, say graphic designers or lawyers, etc. you can use the hierarchical directory on the lower part of the page to find alphabetic lists by industry grouping. Just remember not to use the search function at the top of the page, it doesn’t work as well at finding categories of information.
http://www.yahoo.com
