A colleague, Blaine Bettinger, recently posted on his blog about the fees we charge as professional genealogists. His post was specifically about being a Genetic Genealogist (and he’s a very good one). He is correct that most ‘average’ people do undervalue those working as professional genealogists in this field.
I had an attorney ask me how long it took me to become a forensic genealogist. I responded with, “How long did it take you to learn how to be a good attorney?” His response was priceless, “I don’t have that much time!”
I am a very good forensic genealogist. I have spent more than 20 years honing my skills. My business was opened in 2000 as I felt my skill set was strong enough to offer these services to others. Below there is a link to Blaine’s blog post where he created a chart on “Supply vs. Demand” for other professionals. I find the chart he created of interest. There really aren’t that many Professional Genealogists. There are many that subscribe (or agree) to support the code of ethics when they join organizations such as APG (Association of Professional Genealogists). But, agreeing to support a code of ethics does not make one a professional genealogist. I am one of a handful of professional forensic genealogists. You can learn more about that through the website Council for the Advancement of Forensic Genealogy. For a time I held their credential. I am a founding member of this organization but I have chosen to allow my membership and my credential to lapse.
Education:
Education is the key to success in any field, IMO. I spend time every month working on my education as I am a life learner. I read volumes of material both online and in print. I network with colleagues both online and in person. I attend conferences to continue my education and meet with colleagues to build relationships and our businesses.
When you contact me please know I charge for my time. And if I contact you, I expect you charge for your time as well. Please be prepared to present a bill for your time just as any other business would do.
Recent article:
Charging for (Genetic) Genealogy Services
Older article that still rings true:
Genealogy – What Do You Mean It Isn’t Free? Written by my colleague, Thomas MacEntee in August 2013.