How to Be Genealogical Researcher - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

When researching family history, it is important to take the time to understand the process and the various resources available. Gathering information about ancestors can be a lengthy process, but it can also be an enjoyable one. To begin, compiling the basic information of a family tree is important.

This includes dates, locations, and names of family members. Next, it is helpful to use sources such as census records, birth and death certificates, and immigration documents to fill in more details. These documents can provide additional information such as occupations and places of residence.

Finally, connecting with distant relatives through social media and genealogy websites can help to round out the picture of one's family history. Overall, a successful genealogical researcher will need to have patience, dedication, and an understanding of the wide range of tools available.

Steps How to Become

1. Familiarize yourself with genealogical research. Start by reading books and articles about genealogical research, such as those from the National Genealogical Society. These materials will help you understand the basics of researching family histories and how to use records and databases to uncover your family’s story.
2. Learn how to access records. You must understand how to access vital records, such as birth, marriage and death certificates, as well as land and probate records. You will also need to learn how to access digital and microfilm records.
3. Join a genealogical organization. Professional organizations, such as the Association of Professional Genealogists and the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists, can help you stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field.
4. Take classes or workshops. Many colleges and universities offer classes in genealogy or workshops on specific topics. There are also private organizations that offer classes and workshops on genealogy.
5. Develop your research skills. You must learn how to use primary and secondary sources, such as census records, court documents, military records and newspapers, to build a family tree. You also need to understand how to analyze evidence and draw conclusions from the data.
6. Become certified. Although certification is not required to be a genealogist, it can help you market yourself as a professional researcher. The Board for Certification of Genealogists offers certification for those who meet their requirements.
7. Network. Develop relationships with other genealogists and attend conferences and seminars to stay abreast of the latest developments in the field.
8. Market yourself. Create a website and/or blog to showcase your services and expertise. You can also join genealogy forums and post articles or blogs on popular sites, such as Ancestry. com or FamilySearch. org, to promote your services.

To remain up-to-date and qualified as a genealogical researcher, it is important for one to stay on top of the latest research techniques, resources and practices. This can be accomplished by taking classes, participating in genealogical webinars, attending conferences, reading books and articles, and networking with other genealogists. Additionally, obtaining certifications from organizations such as the Board for Certification of Genealogists, ProGenealogists, and the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists will demonstrate proficiency in the field and help ensure that one is well-versed in the current best practices. By taking these steps, potential clients can trust that their genealogical researcher is knowledgeable and experienced.

You may want to check Cultural Historian, History Lecturer, and Historical Consultant for alternative.

Job Description

1. Analyze and interpret genealogical data from a variety of sources including birth, marriage, death, census, military and church records
2. Utilize research databases and other tools to trace family histories
3. Interview family members to gather information
4. Utilize standard genealogical resources such as vital records and court documents
5. Organize and maintain research notes and files
6. Compile and document family trees
7. Prepare detailed reports of genealogical research findings
8. Ensure accuracy and consistency of data
9. Develop and present lectures on genealogy topics
10. Attend conferences and seminars to stay current in the field

Skills and Competencies to Have

1. Familiarity with genealogical research methods and techniques
2. Knowledge of historical records, databases, and other primary sources
3. Ability to analyze data and draw conclusions
4. Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
5. Proficiency in computer applications such as Microsoft Office, genealogy software, and online databases
6. Familiarity with archival and library research techniques
7. Ability to interpret legal documents such as birth, marriage, and death certificates
8. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with clients
9. Knowledge of local and indigenous cultures, languages, and customs
10. Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Being a successful genealogical researcher requires an array of skills, but the most important is the ability to draw connections between seemingly disparate pieces of information. It's essential to be able to make connections between people, places, and events to create a comprehensive picture of one's family history. Critical thinking is a must, as well as the ability to identify and use reliable sources, evaluate evidence, and draw logical conclusions.

Furthermore, good research habits and techniques such as using databases, archival documents, and other records are essential for finding information and uncovering the past. With these skills, genealogists can piece together a family tree and uncover the remarkable histories of their ancestors.

Historical Analyst, Technological Historian, and Maritime Historian are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

• How did you become interested in genealogy?
• What experience do you have in researching and analyzing records for genealogical purposes?
• How do you evaluate the reliability of a source?
• How do you use archival material to trace family lineages?
• How do you use technology to aid your research?
• How do you go about verifying information obtained through genealogical research?
• Describe a difficult genealogical problem you have solved.
• What techniques do you use to make sure you don’t miss any important details in your research?
• How do you collaborate with other genealogists or historians?
• How do you stay up to date with relevant genealogical information and trends?

Common Tools in Industry

1. Legacy Family Tree Software. A genealogy software program that allows users to store, organize, and share their family tree information. (e. g. Legacy Family Tree Deluxe)
2. GenDetective. A genealogy research planning software program designed to help researchers organize, plan and document their research. (e. g. GenDetective Pro)
3. Family Tree Maker. A genealogy software program that allows users to easily build and preserve their family tree. (e. g. Family Tree Maker 2019)
4. MyHeritage. A genealogy and family history platform that offers users a variety of tools for researching, organizing, and sharing their family history. (e. g. MyHeritage Premium)
5. RootsMagic. A genealogy software program that allows users to create and manage their family tree information. (e. g. RootsMagic 7)
6. AncestryDNA. A DNA testing service that helps users discover their ancestry, ethnicity, and family history. (e. g. AncestryDNA Kit)
7. Online Genealogy Records. Access to millions of historical records from various locations around the world to aid in genealogical research. (e. g. Ancestry Library Edition)
8. Genealogical Databases. Online databases with vast collections of digitized records of genealogical and historical value. (e. g. FamilySearch)
9. GEDCOM File Viewer. Software that allows users to view, edit, and create GEDCOM files (a standard format for exchanging genealogical data). (e. g. Gedcom File Viewer Plus)
10. GPS Mapping Software. Software that allows users to map out their family history by plotting locations on a map in real time. (e. g. Google Earth Pro)

Professional Organizations to Know

1. Association of Professional Genealogists
2. Board for Certification of Genealogists
3. Federation of Genealogical Societies
4. National Genealogical Society
5. International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists
6. American Society of Genealogists
7. International Society of Genetic Genealogy
8. National Institute for Genealogical Studies
9. International Society of Family History Writers and Editors
10. Society of Genealogists

We also have Military Historian, Historical Strategist, and Genealogical Historian jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

1. Genealogy. The study and tracing of family histories and lineages.
2. Pedigree Chart. A visual representation of a person's ancestors, used in genealogical research.
3. Ancestry. The family lineage of an individual, typically traced through their parents, grandparents, and other relatives.
4. Census Records. Official records kept by a government enumerating the population of a state or country.
5. Vital Records. Government records documenting life events, such as births, marriages, and deaths.
6. Probate Records. Legal documents relating to the disposition of a person's property after their death.
7. Land Records. Official records documenting the ownership and transfer of land and property.
8. Church Records. Records kept by religious organizations, such as baptisms, marriages, burials, and confirmations.
9. Military Records. Official records kept by a government pertaining to a person's military service.
10. DNA Testing. Genetic testing used to establish relationships between individuals and to trace ancestral origins.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are needed to become a professional Genealogical Researcher?

Professional genealogical researchers typically need to have at least a bachelor's degree in history or a related field, as well as extensive knowledge of genealogical and historical research methods, records and resources.

What type of research materials are used by Genealogical Researchers?

Genealogical researchers use a variety of research materials, such as birth, death and marriage certificates; census records; wills and probate records; military records; immigration records; land and property records; church records; local histories; and family papers.

How much does a professional Genealogical Researcher charge for services?

Fees for professional genealogical researchers vary depending on the scope and complexity of the project, the number of hours required to complete the project, and the amount of travel needed. Rates generally range from $15-$50 per hour.

How long does it typically take to complete a genealogy project?

The amount of time needed to complete a genealogy project varies greatly depending on the scope of the project and the amount of research required. A simple project can usually be completed in a few weeks, while complex projects may take months or even years to complete.

What services do Genealogical Researchers offer?

Genealogical researchers typically offer a variety of services, such as researching and documenting family histories, tracing family lineages, locating ancestral records, and providing advice on preserving family documents and artifacts.

What are jobs related with Genealogical Researcher?

• Historical Geographer
• Political Historian
• Literary Historian
• Labor Historian
• Historical Preservation Specialist
• Oral Historian
• Documentary Historian
• Battlefield Historian
• Archaeological Historian
• Religious Historian

Web Resources

• Genealogical Research | NMU Archives nmu.edu
• Genealogical Research - Registrar www.mines.edu
• Genealogical Research - University Archives and Records Center archives.upenn.edu