<< Starting a Genealogy Business, page 1
Get Certified
While it isn't necessary to work in the genealogy field, certification in genealogy provides validation of your research skills and helps assure a client that you are producing quality research and writing and that your credentials are backed by a professional body. In the U.S., two major groups offer professional testing and credentialing for genealogists - the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) and the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen). Similar organizations exist in other countries.
Further Requirements
There are a variety of other skills and requirements that go into operating a genealogy business that aren't covered in this introductory article. As an independent contractor or sole proprietor, you'll need to familiarize yourself with the financial and legal ramifications of operating your own business. You will also need to learn how to develop a contract, write a good client report and keep track of your time and expenses. Suggestions for further research and education on these and other topics include connecting with other professional genealogists, attending the APG PMC conference discussed previously, and joining the APG mail list where you'll find frequent and lively discussions on all aspects of genealogy professionalism and business needs. You don't need to do it all at once, but you will also want to be adequately prepared before you start out. Professionalism is critical in the field of genealogy and once you've damaged your professional credibility through shoddy work or disorganization, it's hard to repair.
Kimberly Powell, About.com's Genealogy Guide since 2000, is a professional genealogist and the author of "Everything Family Tree, 2nd Edition." Click here for more information on Kimberly Powell.
