I wish there was an easy way...

When we first started, we got 'steered down the wrong path' more than once by people who (now that I have been around the block a few times) I can easily see are/were full of shit.

I would say for new people, finding someone you can trust that is willing to help mentor you is critical. (We took refuge under someone's wings and are finally starting to fly well on our own.)

I would also think that these boards are a great way to check facts as well. A simple "Does anyone know so-and-so?" would surely bring some results if they are indeed in the business.

Lastly, I have learned painfully, that the best way is to trust your gut. That is why I feel that face-2-face events like GPF, Internext, etc. are the BEST way to meet and establish trusting business relationships.