E - Engagement is Everything: Building Real Connections Online

Starting the Conversation (Without Feeling Awkward)

Starting a conversation online can feel weird, especially if you’re worried no one will respond. But here’s the thing: people want to connect, but feel like they need an invitation.

Here are a few easy ways to start that spark:

❓Ask open-ended questions. Instead of “Have you done DNA testing?” try “What’s one surprise you’ve discovered through DNA testing?” This invites storytelling.

❓ React to stories or photos. Commenting with something personal—“I have a similar photo of my great-grandmother!” builds an instant connection.

❓Share something real and relatable. People love jumping in when they see themselves in your story. “I’ve been stuck on the same ancestor for 3 years... anyone else stuck on a brick wall lately?”

💬 Use polls or sliders in stories. They’re low-pressure but high-return tools. Even one vote can lead to a great follow-up conversation in DMs.

Keeping the Conversation Going (Without Feeling Like You’re Pushing It)

Once someone replies or engages, don’t let the moment fizzle. Keep the energy going naturally:

👂 Respond with curiosity. If they say, “I found a cousin through a newspaper article,” reply with: “That’s amazing! What paper was it in?” or “Was it someone you were looking for?”

🙌 Acknowledge their effort. If they open up about their research or share something personal, let them know it’s appreciated. “That’s such a cool story—thank you for sharing it!”

🔗 Look for shared threads. Is there a connection to your own experience? Mention it. “I’ve never researched in that region, but my 3x great-grandfather served in the same war!”

🎯 Ask a follow-up question. One of the simplest ways to deepen the connection. Just don’t make it feel like an interrogation—keep it light and friendly.

💬5 Easy Questions to Ask the Genealogy Community(Perfect for starting conversations and boosting engagement!)

1. What’s the most surprising thing you’ve uncovered in your research?

2. Which ancestor do you wish you could have a coffee chat with—and why?

3. What tool or website has been a total game-changer for your research lately?

4. Do you have a favorite family heirloom or photo that tells a story?

5. What’s one brick wall you’re working on right now? Maybe someone here can help!

Pro tip: Ask one of these in your next post or story, and stick around to reply to every comment. You’ll be amazed at what unfolds.