I am writing this as an addendum to my original report. Incredibly, Cambridge Who's Who has contacted me yet again to say that I have been selected as a potential candidate for their registry. And yes, I am using the exact same email address as before. But then again, I guess it's not that incredible. It's reasonable to assume that an outfit such as this one surely wouldn't have their you-know-what together.
Below is the email I received and the response I sent them. Enjoy!
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Dear XXXXX,
You were recently chosen as a potential candidate to represent your professional community in the 2010/2011 Edition of Cambridge Who's Who. We are please to inform you that your candidacy was formally approved June 7th, 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 and our online network.
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 online listing within 7 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
http://www.mmsend12.com/ls.cfm?tid=5779813390&trk=yes&r=565999799&sid=9824889&m=1036185&u=PGN_&s=http://www.cwwapplication.com?cid=237CA2C1&aid=49387&refer=aff7
Our registration deadline for this year's candidates is July 15th, 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,
Benjamin Stevens
Vice President, Research Division
Cambridge Who's Who 498 RXR Plaza, 4th Floor Uniondale, NY 11556, USA
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Dear Mr. Stevens,
I would like to say that I am truly honored to be selected as a member of your prestigeous institution. However, I am sorry to say that such a statement would be completely ingenuine and totally innacurate.
You see, I have already been solicited by your organization. Approximately two years ago I had the displeasure of going through this process. I spoke with one of your henchmen on the phone and rebuked his "offer" with extreme prejudice. My experience is outlined in the link below.
http://www.ripoffreport.com/miscellaneous-companies/cambridge-who-s-who/cambridge-who-s-who-tried-to-93953.htm
Yes, I did mean what I said when I referred to your organization as the "kings of douchebaggery." I would also like to note that my story is simply one among dozens on www.ripoffreport.com. And that's just ONE consumer advocate website.
I have a hard time understanding why your organization has yet to be shut down by the proper authorities. However, allow me to give you and your superiors a word of advice. Stop this scheming and put your efforts towards providing a greater good for all of society. There are honest ways to make money, ways that can help make the world a better place. You could find a way to help people and feel better about yourselves at the same time.
In case the previous four paragraphs have not provided sufficient clarity, allow me to summarize. I have absolutely no interest in your company's services, and I ask that you do not contact me ever again.
Have a good day.
Sincerely,
XXXXX
