Issue 4 - DIY Research guide (part 4)
Interpersonal Networking

If the mere thought of trawling through the press, surfing the internet, or poking around in libraries leaves you weeping with boredom' then maybe the interpersonal approach is for you. Here, our very own computer-phobic, fluffy networking, barfly, PAUL DELUCE, outlines a few ideas on how to get that info.

1. Avoid re-inventing the wheel.
If a company is spoiling your day the chances are they have been doing it to other people. These are the people you want to find, talk to and get the info. This is the basic founding principle of Corporate Watch - we are not trying to create a new all-inclusive corporate database, but are trying to find out who allready knows what - a network of networks A contact address book is probably the corporate watcher's most important piece of kit. Remember - when you speak to one of your contacts, don't just ask WHAT they know but WHO else tbey know who might be useful. A few hours on the phone should get you at least half a dozen good contacts.

2. Find the people who may have the information
These can be found in campaign offices, on actions, and at gatherings, festivals, conferences and meetings. I've also found journalists in the alternative, establishment and trade press particularly useful. If you can negotiate it the companies themselves can give you a suprising amount of good info. Meetings with directors’ PR people can often come up with the most suprising results. I once even managed to get a PR guy working for me for two days!

3. Establish working relationships
You can spend your life requesting info and waiting: People forget, don’t have time or can't be bothered. BE PERSISTENT. The best way of overcoming these hurdles is to get to know people, make friends, show people a good time, that sort of thing. At a conference, gathering or meeting yon won't find me in workshops. I'll be at the bar where the people wbo have the info that i want will usually end up. Call yourself a freelance journalist: you'll be amazed at how eager people are to talk.

4. Bring them to you.
This involves a bit of time and energy plus some cash. Organise a meeting or better still a national gathering/conference. After some initial contact you should end up With a list of individuals and groups who will have exactly what you’re looking for. Pick a weekend, book a venue, send out the invites and away you go. I've found that you need 2 months to get a good response. Allow lots of networking time and most importantly ensure people enjoy themselves.