Some Resources for Freelance Researchers
It’s matter-of-fact and it’s often not glamorous but performing some freelance research for publications can pay some bills. I did this twice for a major publication, looking into court documents from cases held in Chicago, making photocopies and sending them off to New York. I didn’t get any bylines but I got to be a part of two interesting stories (finding one juicy quote in the process), plus I met some fascinating reporters who gave me some career advice and made a few bucks.
If you find yourself doing this, how do you charge? I got paid by the hour, myself. If you’re setting your own rates, this can work better than a flat fee if your work takes longer than you expect (however if you’re offered a flat fee and when you break it down it turns out to be an exorbitant amount of money per hour, then by all means, take the flat fee.)
I looked on some open-to-the-public message boards where freelance researchers have posted and found some sources that the pros say have helped them.
Consult Online is a directory of the Special Libraries Association, full of people who can help you with your queries.
The Association of Independent Information Professionals seeks “to explain the role of independent information professionals and to provide a forum for information professionals to meet and exchange views.”
It’s a British resource but the Chartered Insitute of Library and Information Professionals is “the leading professional body for librarians, information specialists and knowledge managers”.
One researcher says, “I love Dogpile. Or the news section of Lycos. I’m always amazed at what comes up.”
Don’t have access to Lexis-Nexis? Go to your local public library. Remember those things? However, if you’re too lazy to leave the house, you may be in luck by going to the website of your university, if you’re a college graduate. Often sites with password-protected alumni sections allow alumni to access the same library services they could when they were younger and dumber.
Speaking of libraries, another researcher adds, “For online databases, I’d recommend Ebscohost, Proquest SIRS, Infotrac or even Opposing Viewpoints. While most of these are subscription databases, your local library has most likely purchased them – so if you have a library card, you can log in and access them from your home computer.”
Also: “For meta search engines, I love Vivisimo.com.”
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