Popular Social Networks for Genealogy

Blogs

Many blogs help with learning the basics of genealogical research, learning more about a particular ancestral line or geographical area, and provide the latest news about happenings in the family history research industry or products used.

Forums

In a genealogical forum, you can ask a specific question about an ancestor or a product used in family history research.  It is helpful if questions are posted in the area related to a particular discussion, or community members can start a new discussion related to their query.  Find out the rules as a forums member.  For example, some forums allow attachments and some do not, and it is not proper to advertise products in a forum post or spam forum members.  That is one sure way of getting blocked from a forum. Those who answer posts can be professional genealogists or enthusiasts who have a good working knowledge of the topic.

Groups

Many groups exist with members who have a common nterest which focus on a particular research topic or geographical concentration.  Members of a group can learn from the wide range of replies and questions that are asked, post questions, and learn about specific interests when general inforamation is shared that benefits the group.

Networks

A network is made up a very large community where members having a common interest connect with each other to communicate.  Special interest groups can also be found within networks where members can join to collaborate with one another. The following networks have members who belong to special groups relating to genealogy within the network.  Some of the groups within networks are listed below.  The expertise of the group can range form expert to novice.  All are there to share ideas and resources.

Podcasts

Free podcasts can be accessed to receive instruction and information about the latest products and news in the genealogical industry. Many professional genealogists offer helpful information about resources and techniques via podcasts.

Trees

Several repositories for genealogical findings can be found on the interest today.  Members who join a repository where trees are shared share information they have compiled on their own family.  Many of these repositories are free, and members can link to information on deceased family.  Repositories provide a place where members can store a vast about of data permanently.

Wiki

A wiki is an encyclopedia where research is shared and beginners benefit from knowledge the community contributes.  With community contributions, a wealth of specialized knowledge is always readily available by searching.  A wiki is not the proper format for posting questions.

Fo more information see The Power of Community