Presenter: Mindie Kaplan
Format: Download MP4 video file of Slides with synchronized audio

The first thing most people think of when interviewing in relatives is how many names, dates, or places that person can provide. I turn that idea on its head to get "reluctant" relatives and previously unknown relatives to get excited about being a part of YOUR family tree. This lecture provides a series of concrete techniques for reaching out to relatives, including those who are reluctant to meet with a stranger, and provides examples of research successes to inspire and encourage people to expand their research in new areas. I will be discussing how to locate previously unknown relatives and prepare for meetings that will get people to participate and even want to provide DNA samples. It will also discuss why genealogists should be interested in adding stories, photos, and DNA to their family trees.