There’s another James Stewart doing the rounds. A Contributing Editor at Condé Nast Traveler, his emails are clunky, his requests for support shameless. In the one I’ve seen he is “reaching out” (ugh!) about “an upcoming editorial feature” (yuck!) on gourmet dining on the French Riviera and “would like to request a complimentary press invitation for two” (not one, obviously). He signs off over-formally: “Thank you very much for considering my request.”
I learned this because Oriani, the multinational agency which handles the posh Nice restaurant where James Stewart wanted to dine, sought clarity. Is this you, they asked?
Poor them. On the one hand the PR wanted to protect her client. On the other she didn’t want to offend James Stewart: “We would of course be delighted to arrange the experience if you’re in the area and will update our contact lists accordingly.” Frankly, I doubt whether I’m on Oriani’s lists at all. Can’t speak for James Stewart, mind.
Though lousy as prose, the fake email included a convincing Condé Nast Traveler signature and privacy statement. Coincidentally, Craig Platt, digital editor of Australia’s Traveller section, posted on LinkedIn last week about a staff journalist who sought support for a £200 meal. No prizes for guessing the staffer didn’t exist. Several years ago a fake Ian Belcher scored occasional trips.
Wherever there are expensive holidays and food, there will be blaggers, con artists, scammers; call them what you will. Google is only so helpful to determine who is genuine. I haven’t written for Condé Nast Traveller (UK) for a few years but the digital team refreshes old pieces to lift them up search rankings. With recent publication dates on those plus regular bylines in the Sunday Times or Financial Times, who’s to say I might not sideline for the US magazine?
My point is never be afraid to verify a request if your gut tells you you’ve got a wrong ’un. Cross-check contact information with the Roxhill database. Contact outlets direct to confirm writers if something seems amiss. Ask to see commission emails. Editors will thank you and no legitimate journalist will be offended. While it’s almost flattering to be faked, I salute every effort to weed out the chancers from our industry.
One giveaway of fake James Stewart was his spelling of “Traveller” (UK) in the signature but use of the American logo, spelled “Traveler”. In this case Oriani contacted me via my website, www.james-stewart.com, rather than reply to j.stewart@cntraveller.org. Smart cookies because www.cntraveller.org diverts to the genuine magazine site.
Be careful out there, people.
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