Working with a Professional Genealogist on Your Family History Project

Working with a Professional Genealogist on Your Family History Project

This guide will help you leverage FamilySearch.org when collaborating with a professional genealogist on your family history research.

Step 1: Prepare Your FamilySearch Tree

Before contacting a professional, ensure your existing research on FamilySearch.org is organized and clearly presented for their review.

• Go to FamilySearch.org and sign in. Click on "Family Tree" in the top menu, then select "Tree" to view your pedigree.
• Navigate to the individual you want the genealogist to focus on. This is often an ancestor where your research has hit a brick wall.
• On the ancestor's "Person" page, review the "Details" and "Sources" tabs. Ensure all known information is entered and all existing sources are attached.
• Use the "Memories" tab to upload relevant documents, photos, or stories that might aid their research.
• Add "Notes" to the person page (found under the "Details" tab, scroll down) to summarize what you already know, what specific questions you have, and what research you've already attempted.

Step 2: Find a Qualified Genealogist

FamilySearch provides a portal to help you locate accredited professionals who can assist with your project.

• On FamilySearch.org, click "Help" in the top right menu.
• From the dropdown, select "Find a Professional."
• This page provides links to various genealogical accreditation organizations (such as AG and CG). Click on these links to search for professionals specializing in specific regions, languages, or types of research relevant to your family history.
• Contact potential genealogists to discuss your project, their rates, experience, and how they typically collaborate with clients.

Step 3: Grant Access and Collaborate

Once you've hired a genealogist, you can easily share your FamilySearch tree with them to facilitate their work.

• Go to the "Person" page of the individual you want the genealogist to research.
• You can provide your genealogist with the Person ID (found at the top right of the "Person" page, e.g., "L8W3-2F4"). They can use this to quickly navigate to that person in FamilySearch.
• Alternatively, you may choose to invite them to be a helper on your FamilySearch account (if they also have an account). Discuss with your genealogist the best method for sharing and collaboration that meets both your needs and FamilySearch's guidelines.
• Emphasize using the "Discussions" and "Notes" features on FamilySearch person pages to communicate specific findings, questions, or updates directly related to ancestor profiles.

Step 4: Review and Integrate Findings

Your professional genealogist will add their findings directly to your FamilySearch tree or provide reports you can use to update it.

• Regularly check the "Changes" tab on ancestor profiles to see edits made by your genealogist (if they are editing directly within your tree).
• Review new sources, facts, and relationships added by the genealogist. Always verify the information and understand the reasoning behind their conclusions.
• Discuss any questions or discrepancies using the "Discussions" feature on the person page, ensuring all research is well-sourced and documented within FamilySearch.
• Remember that your project is a collaborative effort, and maintaining clear communication and regular review within FamilySearch will maximize its success.