10) “Must Ask” Questions 

1.             Mailing address 
2.             Their birthdate 
3.             Family photos, bible, documents? Copies only of course! 
4.             Can I keep in touch? 
5.             Can you suggest anyone else I might contact? 

11) Wrapping it up  - Thank them for their time.  Ask for email address. Offer to give them your number.

12)  Create Documentation -  Be sure to include the person's name, address, phone number and date of conversation.

13) Enter data into your genealogy database  -  This is a must.  Do it right away while it’s on your mind.

14) Create a Genealogy Research To Do List  -  Go through the notes you typed with a highlighter pen to mark items you will want to research further.    

15) Follow-up -  Thank you, Birthday & Christmas cards, and follow up calls.  

4) Get up the “nerve” to call  - Be prepared.  Say to yourself:  “I can do this.  This is important”.  Remember, all they can do is say “no thank you” 

5) Introduce Yourself  -   Immediately identify yourself with first & last name & town.  Indicate any family connection. Indicate who referred you to them.

6) Where to Begin  - Talk about the family line you are researching  
Explain how you thought you might be related. 

7) Reluctant Relatives  -  Share what you’ve learned.  Share your own memories of a shared relative.   Mention something of particular interest in the family tree that might pique their interest.   Offer to mail them some information and call again once they’ve had a chance to look at it. 

8) During the Call  - Take notes.  Confirm family history information that you already have

9) When There’s No Answer  - Leave a voice mail with your name, number, why you’re calling,  & offer to call back.