How To Hire a Genealogist Abroad (or Anywhere)
Get Clear About Your Goals
Just like you’d like to take inventory of your wardrobe before purchasing a sweater, it helps to take a moment before contacting a professional genealogist. Think about what you want out of the research. You may want to follow in the footsteps of your great-grandfather, but what does that really mean to you? Do you want to know exactly where he lived during his life and learn about any missteps that he made? Or do you want to know where his ancestors came from, going back to the early 1700s?
The approaches for reaching these goals will be different and making sure you know what you want is crucial for getting there.
Expertise and Specialization Matter
The success of your genealogical project often comes down to the professional’s expertise related to your ancestry. Different regions, time periods, and record types all have their own quirks. Look for someone who not only has general genealogical skills but also specializes in the time and location where your family’s history took place. This is crucial when hiring someone abroad, as they will be familiar with local archives, historical nuances and administrative idiosyncrasies.
Once you’ve found a genealogist whose skills match your needs, it’s important to trust their process. Remember, professional genealogists bring a wealth of experience. They know the most efficient paths to uncovering the past. Keep an open discussion about how to achieve your goals and take their suggestions and guidance to heart.
Seek Reviews and Professional Standards
Testimonials, references, and reviews all provide insights into how a genealogist works and success at achieving client objectives. Don’t hesitate to ask for a reference and take the time to follow up on them.
As genealogical research often uncovers sensitive information, make sure that the genealogist follows strict ethical standards, such as the APG Code of Ethics and Professional Practices. Discuss how privacy and confidentiality will be handled.
Understand Costs
Genealogical research can vary in cost. It depends on the complexity of the work, which isn’t always obvious, and the professional’s rate. A more experienced professional will have higher rates, but may also work more effectively. Some genealogists offer package deals, while others charge by the hour. Make sure to discuss potential additional costs, like document retrieval and travel expenses, upfront.
Communication is Key
Before hiring your genealogist, make sure to have a contract. It should outline the scope of work, fees, and what you get from the research. This protects both you and the genealogist. It sets clear expectations for what you will receive.
For instance, what are your rights for using the report? The industry standard is for genealogists to keep the copyright of research reports. Here at Find a Swede, all reports are delivered under the license CC BY. This means you are free to use the findings as long as you refer to Find a Swede.
While the road may be different from what you had first expected, make sure that the outcome is what you want. Remember the goal you set for the research. Also make sure to know how the research is presented. Will the genealogist provide a report, a family tree, or digital copies of documents? Is all the terminology used clear? Ask an extra time, to ensure that you’re informed at every step.
The Personal Connection
Approaching the professional relationship with respect and patience is vital. Given the personal nature of genealogy, it’s important to feel a connection with your genealogist. Genealogy research is a meticulous process that goes far beyond simple database searches. It involves application of the scientific method, critical analysis, and often, translations of outdated language. Your genealogist is your ally in this quest. Recognizing the complexity and time involved fosters a positive and productive working relationship. A good rapport can make the process more enjoyable and ensure that your family history is handled with the care and respect it deserves.
Conclusion
Remember, genealogy is more than just collecting names and dates. It’s about making your ancestry come to life and getting to know your history, good and bad. Be open to surprises.
Hiring a genealogist abroad is a unique opportunity to discover your family’s past. By going into it with a clear goal, respect, and open communication, you’re creating the best circumstances for discovering your past, whether in the next town over or across the globe. Welcome to your family history – your history.
What’s Next?
Take the first step to discovering your ancestry today. Check out our genealogical research services, to learn more about what Find a Swede has to offer.
