Starting Genealogical Research - Advanced

Advanced - Getting Started

Step 1 - Expanding Your Search

Unless your ancestors were all Native Americans you have roots that extend outside the United States. You can still learn a great deal using the tips I've described in the previous two sections but there will come a time where you will hit the proverbial brick-wall. When that happens you will need to crank it up a notch or two and cast your eyes across the waters.

Depending on the country this part of your research can become tricky but not impossible. The two factors that will play the most important roles will be time and money.

There are two plans of action you can take in this regard:

Hire A Professional Genealogist. Many people who have written to me have asked how to tell if they are hiring the right person to do their research. Thru trial and error I'll pass among some of the experiences I've encountered. The advice listed here is also valid for those wanting research done in the United States.

1) Do your homework. You can find professional genealogists in genealogy-based magazines and also by looking on the Internet. Make sure that they are qualified. There are several professional organizations which have certain standards and a code of ethics their members must adhere to. Here's a site for those offering European research to start with.

2) Look at their website, do they offer a money-back guarantee if you're not satisfied? I've found that the best ones will also tell you that if they could not find any information for you the service is free. Do they list previous customers you can contact and ask about their experiences? What are their qualifications and what will their service include?

3) What will they give you? I spoken with one lady who told me that the person she hired only gave her names and dates, no copies of documents or sources. How does she know if it's accurate? This tells me the genealogist has something to hide about the service. Always insist you recieve copies of any records found and where they were found (Sourcing your information!). If they visit a church or area you're interested in, will they take photos for you? If the answer is no, I don't feel they are very interested in helping you.

Hire A Professional Genealogist - Continued.