Genealogy Societies

The first of the year I joined a local genealogy society and have been attending all the monthly meetings. To be honest, I have not really felt that welcomed. It seems like the group has been together for a long time and they know each other very well. I am not sure how often they get new members. I appear to be the youngest member and believe me, I am no spring chicken. I would like to get more involved but feel like I would be stepping on toes if I suggested any improvements. Any tips for a Society newbie? When's the appropriate time to make suggestions? Do other societies have trouble getting new members?

Tags: genealogy, members, society

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by George G. Morgan on August 22, 2009 at 12:16pm

Great question, Victor. We'll discuss this on the podcast.

Permalink Reply by Terri Carlson on September 16, 2009 at 4:34pm

I joined a very active society a year ago. I made my "breakthrough" after attending our society's Annual Meeting and Holiday Potluck. During the meet-and-greet period I mentioned that I was interested in volunteering but that I live at a great distance and needed assignments that could be accomplished remotely. Guess I was talking to the right person…after only one membership year I am a friend/acquaintance of a great many members and I volunteer regularly for small-to-medium projects that fit my situation.

Penetrating the “good old boys and girls club” can be difficult. As with most circles, a newbie is often treated as an unknown and/or untrusted entity. Gaining the group’s trust is a real challenge. I would suggest starting out slowly, trying to take on a small project that no one else wants to do. Sooner or later your interest, enthusiasm, and talents will be recognized. I can’t pinpoint exactly how long that took in my own case. Somewhere along the way I've become sufficiently "vetted" that the longer-term members now trust me (at least within my little “niche” area of interest ).

As for the bigger picture, I believe that societies can benefit by actively reaching out to new and potential members...a friendly smile/call/email message can make the difference between membership retention vs. attrition. Those that do will grow; those that ignore or shun newcomers will languish over time.

Permalink Reply by Victor G Carre on September 16, 2009 at 7:36pm

I think I am going to follow your plan. I volunteered to help out on a small project that will not take too much time but will allow me to get to know a couple of members.

Permalink Reply by Drew Smith on September 19, 2009 at 12:20pm