Episode Summary
In this episode of Connect.Vegas, host Ben Laifsky speaks with Jeanette Jones, founder of Cottrill Research, about her fascinating work in competitive intelligence and market research. Jeanette, a professional librarian and researcher, shares insights into how she helps companies stay competitive in an increasingly complex data-driven world. Her journey from setting up corporate libraries at major institutions like Arthur Andersen and Bank One to founding her own research firm illustrates her deep expertise in gathering and analyzing business-critical information.
Jeanette talks about the evolution of research, from the days of printed binders to the vast and often overwhelming amount of online information available today. She explains how Cottrill Research stands out by providing clients with valuable, authoritative insights that are not easily found using standard research tools. Jeanette’s work focuses on competitive intelligence and supply market research, and she emphasizes the importance of understanding the credibility of information sources in today’s media landscape.
The conversation also touches on her early life, growing up in Marietta, Ohio, her career path, and her current love for Las Vegas, where she and her husband moved in 2010.
Contact Jeanette Jones
Jeanette Jones
Cottrill Research
Highlights:
- Evolution of Research: Jeanette reflects on how corporate research has changed from printed binders to online resources and how she was a pioneer in this transition.
- Challenges of the Internet Age: With so much information available online, Jeanette discusses the difficulties companies face in determining which sources are trustworthy and which are biased or misleading.
- Cottrill Research: Jeanette’s company specializes in competitive intelligence and supply market research, offering flat-fee services to businesses that need specialized information.
- Startup Research: Jeanette describes how she researches emerging startups, including those operating in stealth mode, and the challenges of gathering data on early-stage companies.
- Bias in Media: Jeanette talks about the importance of identifying bias in information sources and how she includes bias statements in her research reports to help clients make informed decisions.
Notable Quotes:
- Jeanette on the importance of authoritative research: “The value of Cottrill Research is in pulling up nuggets of information that other sources don’t provide, giving clients a competitive edge.”
- Jeanette on research bias: “Everyone is biased, and that’s okay, but the problem is when information is intentionally withheld so you’re not getting the full picture.”
- Jeanette on working with clients: “I don’t charge hourly because research doesn’t work that way. I give clients a flat fee and ensure they get exactly what they need by a set deadline.”
- Jeanette’s advice from her early career: “Conduct yourself in a way that makes others want you to succeed.”
This episode provides a deep dive into the world of competitive research and highlights how essential it is for businesses to have accurate, unbiased information to make strategic decisions. Jeanette’s extensive experience and passion for research make her a fascinating guest, offering practical insights for businesses of all sizes.