Finding and Working with a Genealogy Researcher

How to Find and Work with a Genealogy Researcher on FamilySearch.org

This guide helps you find and collaborate with genealogy researchers through FamilySearch.org to break down brick walls and expand your family tree.

Step 1: Understanding the FamilySearch Community

FamilySearch has a vast community of users, many of whom are experienced researchers willing to help. There isn't a formal "hire-a-researcher" feature, but here's how to leverage the community:

1. Explore the FamilySearch Forums and Groups: Navigate away from FamilySearch.org to third-party genealogy forums and groups. While not directly on FamilySearch, these are excellent places to find researchers familiar with the platform. Look for groups specializing in your ancestor's geographical location or ethnicity.
2. Consider the FamilySearch Wiki: While not directly connecting you to researchers, the FamilySearch Wiki (wiki.familysearch.org) is an invaluable resource for understanding record collections and research strategies. Learning about the available resources yourself can help you better define your research needs and communicate effectively with a potential researcher.

Step 2: Preparing Your Research Request

Before contacting anyone, clearly define your research goal. This makes it easier for a researcher to understand your needs and provide accurate estimates.

1. Identify Specific Research Questions: Instead of a general request like "Find my family," focus on specific questions, such as "I need help finding the birth record of John Smith, born around 1850 in Ohio."
2. Gather Existing Information: Collect everything you already know about the ancestor and their family. This includes names, dates, places, and any documents you have. The more information you provide, the easier it will be for the researcher.
3. Outline Your Budget: Be upfront about your budget. This helps the researcher tailor their services to your financial constraints.

Step 3: Contacting and Vetting Potential Researchers

Once you've found potential researchers, contact them and ask questions to determine if they are a good fit.

1. Send a Detailed Email: Clearly explain your research question, the information you already have, and your budget.
2. Ask About Their Experience: Inquire about their experience researching in the specific geographical area or with the type of records you need.
3. Request Examples of Their Work: Ask if they can provide examples of previous research they have conducted.
4. Discuss Their Research Process: Understand how they plan to approach the research and what resources they will use.

Step 4: Collaboration and Communication

Effective collaboration is key to a successful research project.

1. Share Your FamilySearch Tree: Grant the researcher access to your FamilySearch tree, allowing them to review your existing research and add new findings directly.
2. Establish Clear Communication Channels: Agree on how you will communicate (e.g., email, phone calls) and how often.
3. Provide Feedback and Answer Questions Promptly: Respond to the researcher's questions quickly and provide feedback on their findings.
4. Discuss Research Findings: Work with the researcher to analyze the research findings and determine the next steps.

Step 5: Reviewing and Integrating Research Results

Once the research is complete, carefully review the findings and integrate them into your FamilySearch tree.

1. Evaluate the Evidence: Assess the strength of the evidence supporting the research findings.
2. Cite Sources Properly: Ensure that all sources are properly cited in your FamilySearch tree.
3. Document Your Reasoning: Add notes to your FamilySearch tree explaining how you arrived at your conclusions.