Professional Genealogist - Become one, become a better one (941)

Do you have ambition to become a professional genealogist? Have you already started taking on clients but are looking for guidance or want to check you have thought of everything? Whether you are already researching for clients or planning to do so, this 4 week professional genealogist course guides you through the steps and professional skills that form the foundation for success.

This course was developed in association with the Association of Genealogists and Researchers in Archives (AGRA), the professional body for genealogists in England and Wales, and includes guidance on what AGRA requires of its members and the application process.

The course begins by considering how professional research differs from personal research with a focus on standards for research, analysis and reporting. We move onto education options, membership of professional bodies and handling client enquiries. Equally important are the business skills that contribute to success. Topics in this segment of the course include advice on managing your office, UK regulations for the self-employed and costs and pricing. Another section of the course presents advice about the ways professional genealogists can stay current with new developments, with advice on the advantages of diversifying into writing and lecturing. We conclude with a practical guide to marketing your business and yourself.

Students should note that this course does not give guidance on advanced methods of research or records, and will assume you already have extensive research experience.

Whilst focused on the requirements in England and Wales, many overseas students have taken this course as the general principles apply wherever in the world you are located.

• * Professional genealogy and business basics
• * Professional standards, education and Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
• * Dealing with clients and writing reports
• * Marketing and websites

Each lesson includes exercises and activities; a minimum of 1 one-hour chat session per week. See How the Courses Work.

STUDENTS SAID:

"Every lesson has been so informative about starting a genealogy business. You've given us all the tools that we need with lots of food for thought, web links to look at and things to find out about. Thank you so much."

"Before starting this course I had no idea there was so much to it to start up a business! I feel that this course has opened my eyes, given me plenty to think about and given me a basis to start my preparations. I found looking at examples of client reports very useful and enlightening!"

"Very comprehensive and full of useful and essential advice. I was thinking about moving my genealogy from hobby to business and I now have the tools I need to do this. THANK YOU."

AGRA members should note that there is a discount for this course. Please see the members' area of the AGRA website.

Relevant Countries: England and Wales, principles apply worldwide