I’ve posted my comments at http://www.thefamilycurator.com/home/2011/4/21/nergc-highlights-going-pro.html.

I have also found that in genealogy more than other interests that there is a perception that things should be free. I think that needs to change. I have no problems with bloggers who want to blog about their own family history for free. I currently do not have any affiliate links on my blog, but I have no problems with those who want to earn money by blogging. I’m a proud member of the genealogy blogging community and learn so much from each and every blog I follow.

I think there is room for everyone. I’m also a person who embraces risk and change. I’m excited about what is ahead for the field of genealogy, and about all of the potential roles those who share this passion can play in increasing the interest in family history and heritage–especially in the younger generation.

Thanks to all of those who started this discussion rolling. I look forward to more dialogue.

So glad to see this topic addressed and the points spelled out so clearly.

There are many eyebrows that often are raised when one speaks of genealogy and then bringing up the topic “fun or profit.” Eyebrows are often raised, because genealogy is often perceived to be a personal endeavor for many, and when many who were once lone researchers, put up their sign and become a “professional” in some way, questions will be asked.

Personal blogs are platforms to share the journey that one has undertaken down the research path. Bloggers for profit—with most—they have taken their wisdom gained over many years to another level and have decided to share it.

The question does arise though—What makes one a professional genealogist? And where does the blogger fit into that discussion of the professional?

Blogging is of course something that anyone can do, and these days placing affiliate ads on blogs are today as common as blogging itself. It is high traffic that generates revenue to blogs and those of us who share our personal research successes and challenges; we will find that the ad revenue will not bring upon life-changing increases to one’s financial base. In other words, the revenue is modest.

I have several genealogy websites in addition to my blogs, and one of my websites I have had since 1997. With over 14 years of writing and sharing what I have learned, 13 of those 14 years were without any financial benefit of any kind. Only in the last 2 years have I put time into Google and Affiliate ads.

Another website, (not blog) I have had for over five years and in the past year, and now have Adsense ads there. Only in the past 2 years did I become aware of placing Affiliate ads, and Adsense ads on the sites. When I decided to enter the blogging community as a traditional blogger, I did add them to my account for Google Ads, and affiliate ads.

BUT—-I think there is the issue of integrity of the blogger, which might be an issue for some.

For me, having been a part of the community that I research—having been a part of the same research community, both online and in real time— I find now that I am also a regular presenter in the same community, that I my placing the affiliate ad is a logical extension of what I do.

And I have been a part of the same community first as a learner, well before I chose to write, speak and now blog, this is not a conflict for me or for me to embrace the leadership found by others whom I feel have basic integrity as a genealogist.

For most who are the professional bloggers, they too have taken that route—they learned first, then they grew in the field and finally later they emerged as a leader. Their status has been a natural progression, and I see no issues or conflicts there.

Their leadership position is well placed, well respected and a natural result of their years and thousands of hours spent.

This is a great topic and I’ll be participating. I love the comments too!