Tracking Down Sources

I tend to write a lot of short pieces so I don't always need to hunt down sources for all of my articles. Recently though I've had a few assignments that have all had similar deadlines and have all required multiple sources.

It's enough to make a writer tear her hair out!

Thankfully I have found a few ways to streamline my search and increase the efficiency of finding sources that are both a good fit for the topic and are willing to talk to me. I thought I'd share my five favourites so that your next source search doesn't have to be a trial by fire.

1. Go to the experts. Sites like ProfNet and Expert Sources exist to help journalists hook up with experts in a particular field. Of course using these sites mean that you run the risk of interviewing the same sources as every other writer covering the same topic so you'll want to pick and choose carefully among your options.

2. Use common sense. When faced with what seem like insurmountable odds it can be hard to stay calm and think rationally, but a little common sense will remind you that if you're looking for a doctor there are professional organisations which exist solely for doctors. The same holds true of social workers, beauty therapists, academics and most other careers. Voluntary organisations and charities also exist and routinely work with writers, so target existing resources that might be able to put you in touch with a source.

3. Troll the boards. Forums for writers can be fertile ground for finding sources. At Freelance Success writers routinely post about their source needs and more often than not someone can help them out. Don't be shy - ask away.

4. Google. What did we do in the days before Google? That's a question to save for when you're not on deadline. When you're pressed for time, try searching for keywords associated with the topic you're researching and then tack on the word "interview". This may find you some past interviews with a source that might still be willing to talk to you. If you're really lucky you might also find a few blogs on your topic. Bloggers love to share and are usually delighted by interview requests, so don't hesitate to get in touch.

5. Talk to Friends and Family. If all else fails, plead with friends and family for help. You never know who might know someone who might know someone who might know someone...