I've been reading the debate with interest, and may finally have something to say (which all may take cum grano salis). I do not work full time in the field, as I have other irons in the fire, such as being a graduate student. And while I'm in my studies, I have suspended what little work I did, which was mainly writing and lecturing. Does speaking a few times a year make me a professional? I don't do it every month, but it recognizes that I know something. Does having written _Non-Federal Censuses of Florida, 1784-1945: A Guide to Sources_ make me a professional? I think that's part of it. Is being a member of a professional society necessary? I think it's nice, and I lean toward necessary, though I don't have the money for the membership dues right now! Is adhering to a code of ethics necessary? Absolutely. That is an individual decision, but I think it is a must. I think another facet of being a professional is peer recognition. Genealogical societies around Florida have asked me to speak to their groups more than once. They recognize that I have something to say and the background to be able to say it. Professional genealogists in the area include me in. Organizers of genealogical conferences in the area have invited me to be one of their presenters. So I think that's part of it, too. But maybe because I am part-time, I'm only semi-pro. I am on my way to becoming a professional historian. In that practice of history, in my training for it, I have applied genealogical as well as historical methods. I use genealogical methods heavily in my study of St. Augustine, Florida, between 1784 and 1821, because one of the approaches I have to studying the history of that place at that time is to parse out the family relationships. Interesting question, and interesting discussion. Karen Packard Rhodes currently residing in Pinellas Park, Pinellas County, Florida On 9/24/2012 11:18 PM, Michael Hait wrote: > I think Dee Dee's suggestion was that we poll those outside of genealogy. > > Her position seems to be that _outside of genealogy_ the term "professional" > has a very specific meaning that is understood. This meaning does not align > with how we use it _inside genealogy_. > > Personally, I am split. I have a relatively inclusive definition of the term > "professional genealogist," but I generally feel that this requires doing > some form of work--paid or unpaid--for someone other than one's own family. > This work is not necessarily restricted to those who conduct research but > also may include authors, lecturers and educators, publishers, etc. The key > point, I think, is that a professional has to do something for someone else. >