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General Questions

The Selection Process

The Publication Process

Volume Distribution

About the American Biographical Institute (ABI)

What are the advantages of inclusion in a biographical reference publication?

Selection for inclusion in a volume such as the International Who’s Who of Professional & Business Women is testament to the nominee’s demonstrated abilities, successes and intellect.  It is an honor and a recognition that pays tribute to the valuable contributions she makes both within and outside of her formal profession.  Placing a copy in one’s home or office is a source of personal pride and accomplishment.  Equally important, her inclusion means her biographical information is available to the numerous businesses, universities, companies and individuals around the world that frequently make use of biographical reference volumes for the purposes of networking, hiring and learning about those at the top of their respective fields.  For decades, prominent people and organizations around the world have relied on biographical reference books as important resources.

How am I selected for inclusion in an ABI title?

The ABI maintains a rigorous and restrictive selection process for all of its titles—a process that has been developed over the past 41 years of biographical publishing experience.  We rely on reputable resources to provide us with quality, researched nominations.  First, we maintain six experienced editorial boards and associations whose job it is to locate, either by referral or research, individuals throughout the world who are clearly making a difference.  Second, we ask those who we include in our publications to provide us with nominations of their own.  Because we are familiar with their significant achievements, we take the professional recommendations of our biographees very seriously.  Maintaining business operations for 41 years has allowed us to develop a reputable network of referrals, the quality of which only increases with each passing year.

Why can’t you give me the name of my nominator?

Personal nominators are given the option to either share their name with you, or to remain anonymous.  If we do not have a name on file in connection with your nomination, the nominator has asked to remain anonymous.

How does the ABI verify the accuracy of the information in the biographies it publishes?

It would be impossible for the ABI to perform background checks or extensive research to verify every biographical detail.  We rely, first, on solidly researched and recommended nominations of reputable individuals.  We then rely on those individuals to be truthful about the information they provide to us.  With each proof of your entry that you review, you will be asked to sign a form that verifies the truth and accuracy of the information you have asked to be published.

How will I know if I am selected for inclusion?

You will receive a galley proof of your entry, as our editors have compiled it based on the information that you provide, through the mail.  This galley proof, which shows your entry exactly as it is slated to appear in the volume, will provide you with opportunity to make changes, additions and corrections to the entry prior to publication. 

Is purchase required for inclusion?

Purchase of merchandise has never been required for inclusion in any American Biographical Institute title.  We consider the content and quality of our books top priority, so to exclude a highly accomplished person because she did not purchase the book would be contradictory to our mission.  All of those included in our publications are important to us, so therefore we treat them each with the same courtesy and regard.

How long does it take for the book to be published?

The ABI employs traditional publishing practices that dictate a production schedule that might be longer than one would expect in a day and age of modern convenience.  However, we feel that adhering to these time-tested techniques results in a finished product that is of the highest possible quality—both physically and content-wise.  We use traditional offset printing processes, and our two-proof galley process allows those included ample opportunity to ensure their entry is as accurate and up-to-date as possible.  Additionally, because we compile reference sources that incorporate the biographical details of individuals from all over the world, each with their own busy lives and schedules, it does take time to coordinate the receipt and review of that material.  We understand that a period of several months can be a long time to wait, but we value accuracy over speed and feel that our associates would as well.  We make an effort to keep in touch with biographees on a regular basis regarding the publishing schedule.  Our Public Relations department is also available to answer questions by telephone at any time.

When and how can I reserve a copy?

Because most ABI titles are specialized and printed in very limited press runs, we encourage all interested parties to reserve their copies as early as possible in the publishing process.  Having orders in advance helps us to accurately predict the necessary quantities and prevent shortages after printing.  You should receive several order forms throughout the publishing process.  Alternatively, you can also call our Public Relations department at any time to place your order.

Who do I contact if I have a question about my entry or order?

Our friendly and helpful Public Relations department can be reached by telephone (EST in the USA), fax or email, Monday through Friday.  If your question is about your entry or a publishing schedule, they can serve as your personal liaison to the Editorial department.  They also directly manage the Orders department and should be able to assist you with anything you might need.

Telephone: (919) 781-8710 (USA)  |  Fax: (919) 781-8712  |  Email: abiinfo@abiworldwide.com

How many copies of ABI titles are usually printed?

It depends on the specific title, but most ABI titles are highly specialized, unique and subject to limited press runs—generally meaning no more than 1,000 to 2,000 copies are printed.  We encourage interested parties to place their orders well in advance of printing in order to guarantee their reservation.  Titles are rarely reprinted.

Where are ABI books printed?

The ABI works with high quality, reputable printers in the United States of America.

Does my local library carry ABI titles?

Possibly.  The ABI regularly fills standing orders for libraries, universities, businesses and organizations around the world upon release of each title.

Who/what is the ABI?

The American Biographical Institute (ABI) was established in 1967 to recognize outstanding individuals around the world for their achievements.  From science and medicine, to the humanities and the arts—our goal has always been to seek and bring together citizens who enhance others’ lives.  When we discover them, we openly acknowledge them through the avenue of traditional biographical reference publishing.  Over the years, we have published more than 200 separate titles, including the International Who’s Who of Professional & Business Women, Great Minds of the 21st Century, and the forthcoming International Profiles of Accomplished Leaders. 

Through our strict attention to quality research and publishing methods, we have developed a reputation as the premier independent source of biographical information on men and women.  We routinely collaborate with top executives, university leaders and our own Research Board of Advisors, which includes members from over 75 countries.  We are a member of the Better Business Bureau and are proud to serve as an important resource to the public. The information we provide is of lasting value and great impact.

Does the ABI participate in telemarketing?

No.  We will never call you to pressure you to buy merchandise or participate in a publication.  All of our correspondence is handled through the postal mail, email, and facsimile.  The only reason we would ever call you is if you have asked us to, or if there is a problem with your order.

Who do I contact if I have a question about the ABI?

Our friendly and helpful Public Relations department can be reached by telephone (EST in the USA), fax or email, Monday through Friday. 

Telephone: (919) 781-8710 (USA)  |  Fax: (919) 781-8712  |  Email: abiinfo@abiworldwide.com

Mailing address: PO Box 31226
                         Raleigh, NC 27622
                         USA
 
     
   
 
 

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