Should Genealogists Be on LinkedIn in 2025? Here’s What You Should Know

If you’ve been digging into ancestor stories on Instagram or swapping research tips in Facebook groups, LinkedIn might feel like the dusty record book tucked behind your favorite family photo albums - formal, a little overlooked, but full of untapped potential. But in 2025, that "dusty record book" might just hold the key to new opportunities for connection, visibility, and even collaboration in the genealogy world.

Let’s take a look at what the data says and why LinkedIn may actually be worth a second glance.

Why LinkedIn Might Be a Hidden Gem for Genealogists

LinkedIn isn’t just for corporate jobs anymore. Over the last few years, it’s quietly become a powerful space for educators, consultants, historians, and creatives who work in niche fields, like genealogy!

Here’s what’s happening:

✅ Only 17% of brands use LinkedIn actively

Which means it’s less crowded, and your voice can stand out, especially in a field as personal and story-rich as family history.

📊 LinkedIn performs best for value-driven content

It rewards posts that spark conversations, teach something new, or share thought leadership. (Sound familiar? That’s exactly what genealogists already do!)

👥 Most users are millennials (25–34)

This generation is deeply curious about identity, heritage, and legacy. They’re your ideal audience for DNA discussions, research tips, and ancestral storytelling.

So… What Could LinkedIn Do for You as a Genealogist?

Here’s how you might use it:

• 💬 Share insights about research tools, brick wall breakthroughs, or ethical dilemmas in family history

• 📚 Position yourself as an educator or speaker in your niche

• 🤝 Connect with libraries, museums, or historical societies

• 🎥 Repurpose your YouTube or blog content to reach a professional audience

• 👥 Build relationships with other genealogists, historians, and educators

• ✨ Show your expertise if you're offering genealogy services or products

  
  

But… What About Ads?

You might be wondering: Should I advertise on LinkedIn?

Here’s the honest scoop:

• LinkedIn ads are expensive (avg. $3.40 per click and $482 per conversion 😳)

• They tend to convert slowly and often need 4 to 5 touchpoints before someone acts

• Organic content (free posts!) is actually more effective for most small creators

So unless you’re running a B2B product or large-scale genealogy service, focus on organic storytelling first.

Cross-Promotion Idea: YouTube + LinkedIn

Did you know YouTube is LinkedIn’s #1 traffic source? If you’re already posting content to YouTube, you can double dip by sharing those videos on LinkedIn—maybe with a short caption or story that invites discussion.

You can also post your LinkedIn links in YouTube video descriptions (and vice versa) to keep the engagement going on both platforms.

✅ Genealogy-Friendly LinkedIn Checklist

Wondering if this platform is right for you? Ask yourself:

• Do I teach or share insights about family history?

• Do I want to reach professionals, educators, or institutions?

• Do I enjoy connecting through stories and thoughtful conversation?

• Am I okay with playing the long game for visibility?

If you said “yes” to even a couple of these… LinkedIn might be a great place to plant some roots 🌱

Genealogy is more than names and dates, and it’s a bridge between the past and present. LinkedIn is starting to reflect that same energy: professional, yes, but also thoughtful, community-minded, and surprisingly personal when you show up with value.

So don’t rule it out just yet.

Your research, your voice, and your story might be exactly what someone on LinkedIn has been searching for.

👉 Ready to try it?

Create or update your profile, post something meaningful, and tag me so I can cheer you on! Let's grow the #GenealogyCommunity on LinkedIn, one story at a time.