FAQ: Before you Start

You want to find someone? Sounds simple enough, but that isn’t always the case. Names can be changed either through marriage or for other reasons, people move overseas, some simply don’t want to be found.

Start off simple

Do a few quick searches, Facebook, Google, did you find them? If not, then it’s time to really consider your options.

What information do you have?

• Did you meet them at school?
• Do they have a trade or profession you know about?
• Were they considering heading overseas?
• Do you know where they lived?
• Do you know any of their friends or family members names?

Taking stock of what you do know is important as it can give you a lead on where to start and the best places to look. An old school friend may be tracked down through school registries, alumni, even friends or associates they had at school. Likewise military buddies may be found through registries, or you may find some of their close friends that keep in touch with them. Trade and professional licenses can be a simple source for locating someone should you know their occupation. Knowing someones address may prove useful as neighbours may be aware of their new location.

As you can see, there is no one size fits all approach to locating anybody, there really is numerous factors involved. So you do need to consider what you know and how best to use that knowledge.

In essence, open up a writing pad, notes or whatever your document preference and start jotting down all you can. When you have the full picture, make a plan of action. Where is best to start for your situation?

Next: Can I find anybody?