Step Four is to sign up with free registries.

The most highly recommended registries to begin with are:

1.International Soundex Reunion Registry (aka Soundex) is one of the most popular free international registries. It also is highly publicized and has an impeccable reputation for quick matches and honesty.

2. Reunite.com - The registry at reunite.com (a division of adoption.com)is also well known and successful. They have a high success rate of matches as well

3. Adoption Database This registry is recommended by a searcher/birth mom that I know and trust well.

There are also many state specific registries which should be used. However, you should note that these registries have low success rates. That does not mean that she should not sign up with them particularly if there is no charge or a low one. Agency registries have been known to not always match up people even when all parties registry. On the off chance that a state or agency registry could work, it still makes sense to sign up for them.

Although I have heard of many matches through Soundex and Reunite.com, so far I have not run into anyone personally who was matched via a state or agency registry. I know that they must exist; I just do not know them personally.

There are many adoption registries on the Internet, sign up with as many free ones as possible. Keep track of where you are registered and let them know if you are no longer searching. Also be judicious about providing enough information, but not too much to protect yourself from scammers who may prey on searchers.

For more detailed information about registries this link will direct you to previous blogs that Karen and I have written about registries.

For people who want to make it easier to be found, registries are a good way to begin as well.