What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I typically work hourly for research. Other services, depending on what they are, can have a set price. Hourly prices range from $25-35/hour depending on the research in question. Work that involves translation tends to be closer to $35/hour.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
When deciding to take a new client, I like to go over all the details. I specialize in different areas, but am familiar with many. I want to make sure that we are both a good fit for one another. If we both agree to work together, I will draw up a contract that essentially restates everything that was discussed and a price we both agreed upon.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
BA - Spelman College (English/African Diaspora)
Certificate - Boston University Center for Professional Education (Genealogical Research)
Spelman College Archives
Tufts University Prospect Research Department
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I got started doing genealogical research after I located my biological parents. I was able to create my biological family tree and I was beyond excited. My birth mother was telling me the oral stories that had been passed down to her about my ancestors and I was fascinated. I wanted to learn more and find the truths to some of these stories.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I have worked with a range of clients. Most were middle age and older, but I have had a few college-aged and new family starters. My clients also seek different purposes. I have work with clients interested in trying to find the slave master of their family, and others wanting to find missing family.
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
A recent project I was fond of was locating information about a client's mother. The client was in his mid 80s and knew nothing about his mother's family. It took me about 20 or more hours to complete the research, but what I found was fascinating. Prior to meeting my client's father, she had been married in Italy and had roughly six children from that marriage. The family immigrated to New York, but she ended up "running away" after meeting my client's father. She never divorced nor remarried, but she remained with my client's father until his death.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
What is their goal?
How much are they trying to spend?
