Connie said: Although several have mentioned the idea, I don't believe anyone has stated specifically that the definition of the word "professional" depends upon whether the word is used as a noun or an adjective. According to my 1966 edition of Webster's, as a noun it requires money to change hands. As an adjective, it may not. Exactly. Here are two quick draft suggestions that could probably be spiffed into really good descriptions. An avocational genealogist is one who engages in genealogical activities for personal education and pleasure, not as an income-producing pursuit. Some avocational genealogists strive to (1) adhere to professional codes of ethics, and (2) conduct their genealogical pursuits to professional standards. Professional genealogists are engaged in genealogical activities in the pursuit of a part- or full-time job or business. Professional genealogists may belong to business leagues or attain credentials which set professional standards and codes of ethics and conduct. I'd like to suggest folks visit the website of the Association of Independent Information Professionals (AIIP). This business league has been used as an example/model in these discussions in the past. Members are engaged in services probably as close to those of genealogists as possible - information research and management, document retrieval, and consulting. AIIP clearly defines it's purpose and membership: AIIP is the premier industry association for the Independent Information Professional Our membership consists of more than 500 business owners from more than 20 countries around the world. AIIP member firms provide research and consulting services across a wide variety of industries. [http://www.aiip.org/] The organization provides an unambiguous definition of the professional: Independent information professionals use high-level skills in finding, managing, applying, and communicating information, and they pursue their calling with an entrepreneurial spirit. [http://www.aiip.org/WhatIsAnIndependentInfoPro] Membership levels and requirements are clearly defined: http://www.aiip.org/MembershipLevels The organization welcomes associates who are not professionals and students who may find their membership an educational opportunity. But the definition of the professional and the core membership is clearly, unabashedly presented. The full membership distinguishes the professional, the associate level might include avocational researchers. There are folks on this list who belong to AIIP and may be able to clue us in as to whether there is a big, continuous hullabaloo about the definition of a professional within their organization. I'd be really interested in hearing about this. best regards, Dee