What sort of person would make a success to be an archaeologist?

Question

what do you think are the characteristics of a successful archaeologist?

Answer 1

Well, as an archaeologist, I think the number one quality to have is to be patient and flexible. In the field you have to be willing to take your plan in another direction depending on where the site is taking you, so you kind of have to be a trouble-shooter as well. Patience is key because archaeology is often long, tedious hours spent either in the hot sun or in a lab. Also, I think most archaeologists are pretty easy-going (anal retentive sometimes) but easygoing none the less, because you have to be able to work with all kinds of people and personality types. Being outgoing is also another helpful characteristic because archaeologists often act as curators for their site (if it is open to visitors). Above all though, an archaeologist must be genuinely excited about what they are doing and have a passion for it; if not you will be very unhappy in your career.

P.s. - a successful archaeologist also must possess some of the characteristics of a teacher (and most archs do teach at one point or another).

Hope this helps!

Answer 2

Unfortunately, one characteristic that seems essential in being a successful archaeologist is having an adroit political aptitude.  Most archaeological sites are guarded by other archaeologists, or by governments for no other reason then to control the intellectual material produced or as a source of income through permits. (in corrupt nations there can be many layers of permits/bribes to get access)  Once an archaeologist does all the work to get into a site they can become a pain in the butt towards any new research that they are not given a hand in.  Even before you can do any research you either have to cut through a lot of red tape, or else kiss a lot of *** to be close to the archaeologists who trailblazed before you.  Frequently there are varried sources of influence at archaeological sites so even when you are trying to work there is still a tonne of politics to navigate.  Case in point, the Turkana region of Kenya is a constant tug of war between Rutger's Jack Harris and the Leakey family, although ultimately the Leakey family holds all the aces (they still have the Kenyan government in their pocket)  

So the previous reply had a lot of good points, but add on to that list a keen political sense and thick skin! (helps with the sun intensity as well, haha)  If you don't have this to back up the other characteristics then it could all be moot if you were to pursue an area which is politically charged.