How to Become a Family History Organizer (From Memories to History)
If you’re fascinated by the idea of tracing family lines and preserving family heritage, or curious about what it takes to become a Family History Organizer, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the SPECIFIC steps you need to undertake to launch your career as a Family History Organizer. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need.
- The education and training that can assist your journey.
- How to land a job as a Family History Organizer.
Whether you’re a novice in genealogy or a seasoned researcher wanting to turn your passion into a profession, stay tuned.
We’re about to unfold the roadmap to becoming a Family History Organizer.
Let’s get started!
Steps to Become a Family History Organizer
Step 1: Develop a Genuine Interest in History and Genealogy
Having a genuine interest in history and genealogy is the first and most crucial step towards becoming a Family History Organizer.
This passion will drive your learning process and make it enjoyable, aiding in the comprehensive understanding of past events, ancestries, and family connections.
Start by reading history books, attending local history classes, or researching online about different periods, cultures, and events.
Pay special attention to genealogy, the study of families and their lineages.
You can find numerous resources, both online and offline, that can help you understand the basics of genealogy.
Consider joining local or online genealogy groups to connect with like-minded individuals.
These groups often offer workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities that can enrich your knowledge and understanding of the field.
Developing your research skills is also essential.
You will need to be able to investigate and document family histories accurately, which involves a lot of research.
Start by practicing with your own family history.
This can give you hands-on experience and a sense of the challenges and rewards involved in this line of work.
Remember, the role of a Family History Organizer requires patience and attention to detail.
The more interest and enthusiasm you have for history and genealogy, the more successful you will be in this career.
Step 2: Obtain Basic Education
To become a professional Family History Organizer, having a basic education is vital.
Although there are no specific educational requirements, having a degree in history, library science, genealogy, or a related field can be beneficial.
This will provide a solid foundation in research skills and understanding historical records, which are critical for this role.
During your studies, focus on subjects such as genealogical studies, historical research methods, and archival science.
These courses will provide you with tools and skills necessary for conducting successful family history research.
Additionally, consider taking courses in computer science or information technology.
In this digital age, a lot of genealogical research is conducted online, so skills in navigating databases and using various software programs can be advantageous.
Take advantage of internships or part-time jobs related to historical research or genealogy to gain practical experience.
This could involve working at a local history library, a museum, or with an experienced Family History Organizer.
Remember, success in this field relies heavily on research skills, patience, and a genuine interest in history and genealogy.
These can be developed and honed through your education and practical experiences.
Step 3: Take Courses or Earn a Degree in History, Anthropology, or a Related Field
Family History Organizers should have a strong foundation in history, anthropology, or a related field.
This is because they need to understand historical contexts and cultural nuances to accurately trace and organize family histories.
There are several paths you can take to acquire this knowledge.
You could pursue a bachelor’s degree in history, anthropology, or a similar field.
These programs typically cover a wide range of topics, from ancient civilizations to modern history, and give you a broad understanding of historical events and cultures.
Alternatively, if you already have a degree in a different field or if you are looking for a more flexible learning option, you could take standalone courses in history or anthropology.
Many universities and online platforms offer courses that can help you gain the necessary knowledge.
It is also worth considering courses or workshops in genealogy.
These programs specifically focus on the methodologies for researching family history and could be a valuable asset for a Family History Organizer.
Keep in mind that whichever path you choose, it’s important to focus on the areas that are most relevant to the family histories you will be researching.
For instance, if you are going to specialize in tracing European ancestry, courses in European history would be most useful.
Step 4: Learn to Use Genealogical Software and Online Platforms
As a Family History Organizer, knowing how to use genealogical software and online platforms is crucial.
This step involves acquiring the skills to use a variety of digital tools and resources designed to aid in organizing, tracking, and sharing family history information.
There are several genealogical software available, both free and paid.
Some popular ones include Family Tree Maker, Ancestry.com’s Family Tree, and Gramps.
These tools allow you to create, edit, and view family trees, as well as attach digital copies of original records, photographs, and other pertinent documents.
In addition to software, there are a plethora of online platforms such as Ancestry.com, MyHeritage, or FamilySearch, where you can conduct research, connect with other genealogists, and even find long-lost relatives.
Taking online courses, attending workshops, or even just self-exploration can help you become proficient in these tools.
The more comfortable you are with these resources, the easier it will be to compile and present your client’s family history in an organized, accessible manner.
Keep in mind that as technology continues to evolve, so do these platforms.
Therefore, continuous learning and updating your skills is a must in this step.
Step 5: Conduct Personal Family History Research
Before you begin organizing others’ family histories, it’s critical to conduct research into your own family history.
This practice will help you better understand the methodologies and resources available for genealogical research.
Start by gathering information from your family records, pictures, and stories.
Then, utilize online databases and historical archives to trace your family lineage.
Dig deeper into birth, marriage, death, military, immigration, and census records to create a comprehensive family tree.
While doing this, you’ll become familiar with the nuances of historical research, such as interpreting handwriting styles, understanding old terminologies, and dealing with missing or incomplete records.
This step is not just about the research skills, but also about developing empathy and understanding towards the emotional journey clients embark upon when tracing their genealogy.
By experiencing it yourself, you will be better equipped to guide others through the process.
Remember, genealogy is a puzzle with many pieces, and the more practice you have putting these puzzles together, the more efficient and effective you will become as a Family History Organizer.
Step 6: Volunteer at Local Historical Societies or Archives
As an aspiring Family History Organizer, you should consider volunteering at local historical societies or archives to gain valuable hands-on experience.
This will not only give you the opportunity to understand the processes involved in organizing and preserving historical data, but also provide you with a network of knowledgeable individuals who can mentor you or offer advice in your career.
In these settings, you can learn about different archival systems, preservation techniques, and research methodologies.
You’ll gain a deeper understanding of historical contexts and familial lineage tracking.
Your work may involve categorizing archival materials, digitizing physical documents or helping patrons with their genealogical research.
Volunteering in these environments can also help you build a reputation within the community.
Being known as a reliable and knowledgeable resource can lead to paid opportunities as a Family History Organizer.
This step is crucial in showing potential clients that you have the necessary experience and passion for family history organization.
Step 7: Obtain Certification from a Recognized Genealogical Society
As a family history organizer, it’s important to enhance your credibility and professional expertise by obtaining certification from a recognized genealogical society.
This step can be crucial in establishing your reputation in the field.
Many genealogical societies, such as the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) or the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen), offer certification programs.
These courses typically cover research methodology, standards of proof, genealogy ethics, and reporting skills.
By completing such a program, you demonstrate your commitment to the profession and your clients.
Although not always mandatory, these certifications can greatly increase your chances of being hired or receiving assignments from clients.
They indicate a higher level of competence and dedication to the craft of genealogy.
Keep in mind, certification does often require renewal.
This ensures that certified genealogists stay current with the latest research methods, tools, and ethical standards in the field.
Remember to continuously enhance your skills and knowledge in genealogy and family history organization even after getting certified.
Continuous learning and professional development will help you to provide better services to your clients and stay competitive in the field.
Step 8: Start Working on Small Projects, Possibly on a Voluntary Basis
After you have gained all the necessary knowledge and skills to become a Family History Organizer, it’s time to put them into practice.
Start off by working on smaller projects to establish your reputation and gain experience.
You could consider volunteering or offering your services to friends or family for free initially.
This can help you build a portfolio and gain valuable feedback to hone your skills.
You might also consider joining a local genealogical society or history club, where you can gain experience in organizing and interpreting historical information.
Alternatively, you could offer your services to local libraries or archives.
These institutions often have historical records that need to be organized and could benefit from your expertise.
During this phase, make sure to document all the work you do.
Take notes on your research methods, record the sources of your information, and save any documents or photos you find.
This can help you create a portfolio of your work, which will be crucial in attracting paid clients in the future.
As you gain more experience and confidence, you can start taking on larger projects and begin charging for your services.
Make sure to have a pricing structure in place, and don’t be afraid to ask for what your time and expertise are worth.
Remember, as a Family History Organizer, your unique skills can provide invaluable insights into a person’s heritage and history.
Step 9: Build Your Reputation and Client Base
As a Family History Organizer, the most crucial step in your career would be to establish a strong reputation and build a solid client base.
This process might take some time but it’s worth it because your reputation will play a significant role in attracting new clients.
Start by offering your services to close friends or family members.
Use these initial projects as an opportunity to gain experience, hone your skills, and gather testimonials.
Encourage your satisfied clients to refer you to their friends and family, creating a word-of-mouth marketing strategy.
In addition to this, create a professional online presence.
Build a well-designed website that showcases your services, your work, testimonials, and a blog where you can share interesting stories or findings from your work.
This not only helps in attracting potential clients but also establishes you as an expert in the field.
You could also consider offering free workshops or webinars on family history research techniques, or giving talks at local community centers or libraries.
This not only helps to raise your profile but also gives potential clients an opportunity to meet you and learn more about your services.
Be patient and persistent, as building a client base takes time.
Your reputation as a reliable, competent and professional Family History Organizer will grow gradually, and with it, so will your client base.
Remember, the key is to consistently deliver high-quality work and keep improving your knowledge and skills in this field.
Step 10: Stay Updated with Current Research Methods and Findings
As a Family History Organizer, it’s important to stay updated with the latest research methods and findings in the field.
This knowledge will enable you to provide the most accurate and comprehensive family history information for your clients.
You can keep updated by subscribing to related journals, attending seminars or workshops, and participating in online forums and communities.
This could also involve studying new methodologies in genealogy research, understanding the latest developments in DNA testing, or even understanding how to use digital platforms and tools to preserve and present family histories.
A good way to stay current is by joining professional genealogy organizations which often provide training and resources for their members.
Moreover, these organizations host conferences and meetings which are excellent opportunities for networking and learning from other professionals in the field.
By staying current, you not only enhance your skills and knowledge, but also increase your credibility and reliability as a Family History Organizer.
This ultimately leads to an improved service offering for your clients.
Step 11: Expand Your Services to Include Creating Family Trees, Writing Family Histories, etc.
As a Family History Organizer, your primary role is to help people understand their ancestry and lineage.
However, in order to make your services more comprehensive and appealing, you can expand your offerings to include creating family trees, writing family histories, conducting detailed genealogical research, and so on.
Family trees are a visual representation of a person’s ancestry that can span many generations.
They can be simple or complex, depending on the client’s preferences and the information available.
Offering this service not only adds value to your work but also gives your clients a tangible artifact of their family history.
Writing family histories entails researching and compiling detailed narratives about a client’s ancestors.
This can include information about their lives, occupations, achievements, and more.
It’s an excellent way for clients to learn more about their heritage and for you to demonstrate your research and storytelling skills.
In addition, you could also consider offering services like DNA testing guidance or coordinating family reunions.
This allows you to utilize your organizational and coordination skills while providing a unique service that not all Family History Organizers offer.
Remember, diversifying your services not only increases your potential revenue but also makes your business more attractive to potential clients.
It also allows you to utilize a variety of skills and abilities, ensuring your work remains challenging and rewarding.
Step 12: Consider Joining Professional Organizations for Networking and Continued Learning.
As a Family History Organizer, networking and continued learning can be very beneficial for your career growth.
Joining professional organizations and genealogy societies can provide you with opportunities to connect with other professionals in the field, share experiences, learn about new resources and methodologies, and stay up to date with the latest trends in family history research.
These organizations often offer webinars, workshops, and conferences, which can be a great way to gain additional knowledge and improve your skills.
They also regularly publish newsletters and journals featuring research articles, case studies, and practical tips for genealogy work.
Some of the leading organizations you might consider joining include the Association of Professional Genealogists, the National Genealogical Society, and the International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies, among others.
Remember, being active in these organizations can also lead to increased visibility and credibility in the field, which can be beneficial in attracting new clients or enhancing your career prospects in genealogy departments of libraries or other institutions.
Family History Organizer Roles and Responsibilities
Family History Organizers use their passion for history, research skills, and organizational abilities to help individuals trace and record their genealogical background.
They make it easy for families to understand their roots and lineage.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Genealogical Research
- Conduct thorough research to trace a client’s family history and genealogy.
- Use both online and offline sources, including public records, census data, and genealogical databases.
- Verify the accuracy of the information gathered.
Organization
- Collect and organize genealogical information in a clear, logical, and accessible manner.
- Create family trees, charts, and reports to present findings.
- Utilize genealogical software and databases for data organization.
Documentation
- Document all sources of information to maintain a reliable record.
- Prepare comprehensive genealogical reports and family history books.
Interviewing
- Conduct interviews with family members and other relevant individuals to gather personal histories and stories.
- Record oral histories for future generations.
Problem Solving
- Resolve conflicting information and gaps in genealogical data.
- Use advanced research techniques to uncover hidden or forgotten family links.
Consultation
- Provide advice on methods and resources for clients who wish to conduct their own genealogical research.
- Help clients understand and interpret their family history and genealogical data.
Ethics and Confidentiality
- Respect and uphold the client’s privacy and confidentiality rights.
- Handle sensitive information, such as adoption or paternity issues, with tact and discretion.
Continuing Education
- Stay up-to-date with the latest genealogical research methods and tools.
- Attend workshops, conferences, and seminars to deepen knowledge and skills.
Networking
- Collaborate and network with other genealogists and historians.
- Participate in genealogical societies and online communities.
What Does a Family History Organizer Do?
A Family History Organizer, also known as a Genealogist, is a professional who specializes in researching and documenting family histories and lineages.
Their primary job is to gather historical data about families by using a variety of sources such as newspapers, personal diaries, census records, birth and death certificates, marriage licenses, military records, and more.
One of the critical tasks they perform is to build a family tree, detailing the connections between different family members across generations.
They often use special software or online platforms for this purpose.
They also interview family members to get personal stories, gather family memorabilia, and take photographs to enrich the history documentation.
In some cases, a Family History Organizer might be tasked with finding long-lost relatives or proving lineage for legal reasons or to qualify for certain memberships or inheritances.
They need to verify the accuracy of the information they find, reconcile conflicting information, and properly document their sources.
The ultimate goal of a Family History Organizer is to provide a comprehensive, factual and engaging account of a family’s history.
Essential Family History Organizer Skills
- Research: A family history organizer needs to have excellent research skills to uncover information about an individual’s ancestry, including the ability to use various online databases and archives.
- Organization: This role requires the ability to manage multiple sources of information, documenting findings in a clear and orderly way. The use of software or platforms specializing in genealogy is also crucial.
- Attention to Detail: Dealing with historical records requires a keen eye for details to identify important information and spot inconsistencies or errors in data.
- Communication: Family history organizers need to be able to communicate effectively with clients, presenting research findings in an understandable and engaging manner. They may also need to interview family members for additional information.
- Persistence: Genealogical research can often be time-consuming and challenging, requiring patience and tenacity. An ability to stay motivated and persistent in the face of setbacks is crucial.
- Problem-Solving: Being able to think critically and creatively is essential when faced with roadblocks in research or contradictory information.
- Genealogical Standards: Knowledge of genealogical standards and best practices is essential to ensure accurate and ethical research.
- Historical Knowledge: A solid understanding of the historical context, including social, economic, and political factors, can provide valuable insights into ancestors’ lives.
- Confidentiality: Family history organizers often deal with sensitive personal information, so understanding and adhering to privacy laws and ethical guidelines is crucial.
- Technology Skills: Proficiency in using digital tools and software for genealogical research, data management, and presentation is vital. This can include genealogy software, databases, and cloud storage solutions.
- Foreign Language Skills: Depending on the family history, understanding foreign languages can be incredibly beneficial in accessing non-English records and documents.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and respecting various cultural norms and traditions can help provide a more accurate and respectful representation of a person’s ancestry.
Family History Organizer Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Assistant Family History Organizer
The first step in this field is usually as an Assistant Family History Organizer.
Here, you’ll start by learning the ropes, handling administrative tasks, and assisting in organizing and sorting family history documents.
Here are a few tips for success in this role:
- Develop Organizational Skills: Proper categorization and management of historical records is crucial.
- Understand Basics: Learn the basics of genealogy and the importance of each document type.
- Attention to Detail: Small details in historical documents can reveal significant insights.
The Ascent: Family History Organizer
Once you have gained experience and knowledge, you can move up to the role of a Family History Organizer.
Your responsibilities will now include organizing and preserving family history documents, and creating family trees.
Here’s how to thrive:
- Research Skills: Enhance your ability to research and find missing links in family histories.
- Communication: Excellent communication skills are vital to interact with family members or clients.
- Technology Use: Learn to use genealogy software and other technology to simplify your work.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Family History Organizer
The next level up is the Senior Family History Organizer.
You are now a seasoned professional who can lead projects, conduct advanced research, and provide consulting services to those seeking help with their family history.
To excel:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge and help newcomers in the field.
- Advanced Research: Use more advanced methods for uncovering difficult-to-find family history information.
- Client Management: Develop good relationships with clients and understand their specific needs.
Beyond the Horizon: Family History Consultant
As your career advances, you might become a Family History Consultant, providing expert advice and services to individuals, families, or organizations.
You will need to:
- Expertise: Deepen your knowledge and become an expert in genealogy and family history research.
- Networking: Establish a strong network with other genealogists, historians, and relevant institutions.
- Business Acumen: Learn to manage your consultancy business effectively.
Pinnacle of Success: Head of Genealogy Services
At the apex of this career path, you might find yourself as the Head of Genealogy Services for an organization.
Here, you’ll be responsible for overseeing a team of organizers and consultants, developing strategies, and expanding services.
Family History Organizer Salary
Entry-Level Family History Organizer
- Median Salary: $30,000 – $40,000 per year
- Entry-level family history organizers typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold degrees in history, genealogy, or related fields. They usually assist with basic genealogy research and data organization.
Mid-Level Family History Organizer
- Median Salary: $40,000 – $60,000 per year
- Mid-level organizers have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more complex research projects, handling large family histories and more obscure genealogical records.
Senior Family History Organizer
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
- Senior organizers possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for leading research projects, making crucial decisions about genealogical research methods, and mentoring junior organizers.
Lead Family History Organizer / Genealogy Project Manager
- Median Salary: $80,000 – $100,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve leadership, project management, and decision-making within large genealogy projects.
Principal Organizer / Director of Genealogy / VP of Family Research
- Median Salary: $100,000 – $150,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience and deep expertise in genealogy and often involve setting research strategies for genealogy companies or large family history projects.
Family History Organizer Work Environment
Family History Organizers often work in a variety of settings depending on the client’s needs.
This could be in a home office, a client’s home, libraries, or local history societies.
Some even work remotely, using online resources to conduct research and compile information.
Family History Organizers usually work independently but may sometimes be part of a larger genealogical research team.
They typically have a flexible work schedule, spending several hours researching, organizing, and documenting family histories.
As they often work with sensitive and personal information, a private and quiet workspace is essential for concentration and maintaining confidentiality.
Over time, with enough experience and a solid client base, a Family History Organizer may choose to start their own genealogical research business.
FAQs About Becoming a Family History Organizer
What skills are required to become a Family History Organizer?
To become a Family History Organizer, you would need strong research skills to trace family lineages and identify historical documents.
Good organizational skills are important for managing large amounts of information and presenting it in a coherent and meaningful way.
Communication and interview skills are also important for speaking to family members and collecting their stories.
Finally, knowledge of genealogy software and databases can be very helpful.
Do I need a specific degree to become a Family History Organizer?
There isn’t a specific degree required to become a Family History Organizer.
However, a background in history, anthropology, library science, or genealogy could be beneficial.
There are also specific genealogy certification programs available that can provide you with the necessary skills and credentials.
How long does it take to become a Family History Organizer?
The time it takes to become a Family History Organizer can vary greatly depending on your experience and education.
For those with a background in history or genealogy, it might take less time to transition into this role.
Gaining practical experience by working on your own family history or volunteering for projects can also speed up the process.
Is being a Family History Organizer a full-time job?
Whether Family History Organizer is a full-time job or not depends largely on the demand for these services and how you choose to structure your business.
Some people might work as a Family History Organizer part-time, while also having another job.
Others might choose to do this work full-time, especially if they are able to build a strong reputation and client base.
What are the prospects for Family History Organizers in the future?
The prospects for Family History Organizers are promising.
With the growing interest in genealogy and the increasing availability of online resources, more people are looking for professionals who can help them trace their family history and create detailed family trees.
As a Family History Organizer, you could also diversify your services by offering related services such as DNA testing consultation, family history writing, or family heirloom preservation.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Stepping up to become a Family History Organizer is not a simple task, but it’s unquestionably fulfilling.
Equipped with the correct knowledge, training, and resolve, you’re well on your way to making a significant contribution in preserving family legacies.
Remember, the journey may be demanding, but the possibilities are boundless. Your efforts could lead to the uncovering of the next fascinating family story, illuminating the past and enriching the future.
So, take that first leap. Immerse yourself in genealogical research. Connect with fellow enthusiasts. And most importantly, never stop digging into the past.
Because the world is eager to uncover what you can reveal.
And if you’re in search of personalized advice on starting or progressing your career as a Family History Organizer, take a look at our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide custom-made advice and resources to help you effectively steer your career path.
The Work Less Traveled: Unusual Jobs That Are Off the Beaten Path
Stress Unearthed: The Hidden Challenges of Tough Jobs!
Redefine Your Worth: The Ultimate Guide to High-Paying Job Opportunities!
Trending Talents: The Jobs That Are Gaining Momentum
Low Pay, High Dedication: Unveiling the Least Rewarding Jobs in America
