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So, this isn't the real deal (Google suggests that OUP do that version), but...
What's the deal with these. I am nobody, yet I've had one of these for the last few years. I'd assumed to get in I'd have to buy a copy, but apparently...
spam said:
Dear DR. Mekon
It is my pleasure to inform you that you are being considered for inclusion in the upcoming 2010 Edition of Who's Who in the World, which is scheduled for publication in November 2009.
Distributed globally, Marquis' Who's Who in the World is relied upon by business leaders, journalists, academics, and other professionals for its accuracy and currency of information. Additionally, it is found in the collections of many of the world's leading libraries and corporations.
As the Marquis Who's Who editors begin assembling the 2010 Edition of this historic publication, the original Who's Who in the World continues to be recognized internationally as the premier biographical data source of notable living individuals from every significant field of endeavor.
To be considered for inclusion as a biographee in this prestigious publication, you need only provide the requested information by completing the Biographical Data Form by February 23, 2009.
...etc
It is my pleasure to inform you that you are being considered for inclusion in the upcoming 2010 Edition of Who's Who in the World, which is scheduled for publication in November 2009.
Distributed globally, Marquis' Who's Who in the World is relied upon by business leaders, journalists, academics, and other professionals for its accuracy and currency of information. Additionally, it is found in the collections of many of the world's leading libraries and corporations.
As the Marquis Who's Who editors begin assembling the 2010 Edition of this historic publication, the original Who's Who in the World continues to be recognized internationally as the premier biographical data source of notable living individuals from every significant field of endeavor.
To be considered for inclusion as a biographee in this prestigious publication, you need only provide the requested information by completing the Biographical Data Form by February 23, 2009.
...etc
What's the deal with these. I am nobody, yet I've had one of these for the last few years. I'd assumed to get in I'd have to buy a copy, but apparently...
spam said:
P.S. Inclusion of your biography in Who's Who in the World, of course, carries neither cost nor obligation to you of any kind. Our goal with each new edition is to have full representation of noteworthy and accomplished men and women across all fields and industries.
So is their business model predicated on people being vain enough to buy a copy to show the friends and fam, or what? Surely this is just worthless nonsense that nobody buys?
Mekon said:
So is their business model predicated on people being vain enough to buy a copy to show the friends and fam, or what? Surely this is just worthless nonsense that nobody buys?
Exactly. If you're vain enough to think you're important enough to be included, then you're also possibly daft enough to buy the 'heavily discounted' copy for yourself - say £500 down to £100. It doesn't cost that much to actually print such a book, so they'll do a run in sufficient quantities to satisfy demand and make a hefty return. Oh, and when you've filled in the reams of personal information required, that will be sold on.
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