But if that same hardware store uses technology to create a buying group with its competitors, win discounts from manufacturers, and compete against the Home Depots of the world, then that illustrates the management and application of technology as a means to winning and conquering the market. Inc. is unique in that we have a proprietary database of fast growing companies that we generate every year for the Inc. 500. That database puts us in contact with hundreds and hundreds of quickly growing companies. Many of our stories arise from conversations with these CEOs. In addition, Inc. seminars and conferences are constantly exposing us to entrepreneurs and the ideas they're using to build their businesses.
Different editors have different relationships and sources.
But everyone in publishing depends on an information flow, and some of that flow certainly comes from publicists. The problem is, there are a great many people who are self-appointed PR practitioners. They don't understand how to research a publication or an editor and target their pitches appropriately. One of my most frequent suggestions I give to PR people is to read the magazine. If you haven't done that, don't bother pitching a story.