Global Who’s Who

It is nice to receive an e-mail that actually uses my name from a “Who’s Who” organization for a change (although still not as nice as not receiving any e-mail from such an organization at all). At least they are learning that if you want to persuade someone that they are being singled out for an honor rather than being scammed, you should personalize the e-mail.

Nevertheless I remain skeptical of this latest e-mail – this time from Global Who’s Who. They used my name, but the rest is a standard text that has presumably been sent to thousands of people and is in no way tailored to me personally. And even if it is true (I have no intention of finding out) that inclusion will cost nothing, then obviously someone is paying for it, and so presumably companies will be sold the contact information that is provided.

I’m not interested. Has anyone else received an e-mail like the one below? This post provides a forum for anyone who wishes to discuss Global Who’s Who and other similar organizations and their experience with them.

Here’s what I received:

Dear James,

You were recently chosen as a potential candidate to represent your professional community in the 2010 Edition of Global Who’s Who.

We are please to inform you that your candidacy was formally approved January 4th, 2010. Congratulations.

The Publishing Committee selected you as a potential candidate based not only upon your current standing, but focusing as well on criteria from executive and professional directories, associations, and trade journals. Given your background, the Director believes your profile makes a fitting addition to our publication.

There is no fee nor obligation to be listed. As we are working off of secondary sources, we must receive verification from you that your profile is accurate. After receiving verification, we will validate your registry listing within seven business days.

Once finalized, your listing will share prominent registry space with thousands of fellow accomplished individuals across the globe, each representing accomplishment within their own geographical area.

To verify your profile and accept the candidacy, please visit here. Our registration deadline for this year’s candidates is January 31st, 2010. To ensure you are included, we must receive your verification on or before this date. On behalf of our Committee I salute your achievement and welcome you to our association.

Sincerely,
John Franklin
Vice President, Research Division

The Global Directory of Who’s Who
4250 Veterans Highway, Suite 2050
Holbrook, NY 11741, USA
Phone: (631)588-8600

Are any of these “Who’s Who” organizations legitimate? If so, it would be useful for someone to compile a list so that everyone would know they can safely ignore any others.