You searched for identifying - Notary Blog - Signing Tips, Marketing Tips, General Notary Advice - 123notary.com
123Notary

Notary Blog – Signing Tips, Marketing Tips, General Notary Advice – 123notary.com Control Panel

October 18, 2024

Common Notary Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Practice

Filed under: Notary Public 101 — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

As a mobile notary, your success depends on accuracy, attention to detail, and adherence to legal standards. Even small mistakes can have serious consequences, including legal issues or damage to your reputation. Awareness of the common errors notaries make and how to avoid them will help protect your business and ensure you maintain high professionalism. Below are some of the most common mistakes notaries make and how to avoid them in practice.

Failure to Properly Identify Signers

One of the most important tasks for notaries is verifying the identity of the signer. Accepting expired or invalid IDs or relying on personal knowledge can result in fraudulent activity and legal disputes.

How to Avoid:

Always ensure the signer presents a valid, government-issued photo ID. If the ID is expired or inadequate, proceed once proper identification is provided. Even when you know the person, following identification rules to protect your practice is essential.

Poor Record-Keeping

Maintaining a thorough notary journal is essential, even if it’s not required in your state. Failing to document notarizations properly can expose you to legal challenges.

How to Avoid:

Record every notarization in a journal, noting the date, document type, signer’s information, and any additional details. This documentation protects you if a notarized document is ever questioned, ensuring you have an official record to back you up.

Overstepping Notary Authority

Notaries sometimes offer legal advice or explanations that are beyond their legal authority. This can lead to legal repercussions and harm your reputation.

How to Avoid:

Stay within your role of confirming the identity of signers and witnessing signatures. If a client has questions about the legal content of a document, refer them to an attorney. Never interpret documents or provide legal guidance.

Incorrect Notarial Certificates

Using the wrong notarial certificate or failing to complete it correctly can invalidate the notarization. This is one of the most common mistakes notaries make, and learning to avoid it in practice is essential for ensuring your notarizations are legally binding.

How to Avoid:

Before notarizing, ensure you’re using the correct certificate (acknowledgment, jurat, etc.) and fill out all the necessary fields, including the date, signer’s name, and notary seal. Taking time to double-check your work will prevent unnecessary mistakes.

Failure to Keep Up with State Laws

Notary laws vary by state, and they frequently change. Not staying current with these regulations can lead to compliance issues, potentially resulting in legal trouble or loss of commission.

How to Avoid:

Attend training sessions or subscribe to notary newsletters to stay informed about your state’s laws. Regularly update your knowledge to ensure compliance with current regulations.

Lack of Insurance and Bonds

Having the right insurance or bonds can protect you from financial risks. Even a minor error can lead to claims that could harm your business.

How to Avoid:

Invest in errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, even if it’s not mandatory in your state. This coverage protects you from financial claims in the event of a mistake. Additionally, ensure that you meet any bond requirements in your state.

Notarizing Incomplete Documents

Notarizing documents with blank spaces or incomplete information can lead to legal complications and potential fraud. This is a common mistake that can have serious consequences.

How to Avoid:

Only notarize a document that contains blank spaces or is complete. Review the document thoroughly before notarizing, and ask the signer to fill out any missing information. If you’re unsure, pause the notarization and seek clarification.

Safeguarding Your Practice

Avoiding these common mistakes notaries make and how to avoid them in practice is essential for protecting your business and maintaining a good reputation. Correctly identifying signers, keeping accurate records, staying updated on laws, and following best practices can ensure your mobile notary business runs smoothly without unnecessary risk. For more helpful suggestions, check out these marketing tips for mobile notary services.

Share
>

July 8, 2024

AI-Powered Tools Transforming Notary Work

Filed under: Uncategorized — Tags: , — Tom Wilkins @ 4:12 pm

In today’s fast-paced world, notary work is transforming thanks to advancements in artificial intelligence. From reducing administrative burdens to enhancing accuracy, AI-powered tools make notary tasks more accessible and efficient. Discover the different AI tools for notaries and how these innovative technologies can simplify your processes, save time, and ensure accuracy.

What Are AI Tools for Notaries?

AI tools for notaries are software applications that use artificial intelligence to perform tasks traditionally done by notaries. These tools can handle everything from document verification to digital signatures, making the notary process faster and more accurate. By automating routine tasks, AI tools allow notaries to focus on more complex aspects of their work.

Discovering AI Tools for Notaries

AI tools are revolutionizing notary services, enhancing security, efficiency, and accessibility for homeowners and business owners.

AI-Powered Document Verification

AI-powered tools excel at verifying document authenticity, utilizing machine learning to detect tampering and ensure document genuineness. This not only secures but also accelerates the verification process.

Digital Signatures and E-Notary Services

Physical presence for signing documents is becoming obsolete. AI-powered digital signature tools enable e-notary services, allowing remote document signing with advanced encryption to ensure secure and legally binding signatures. This offers unparalleled convenience and flexibility.

Automated Compliance Checks

Compliance is critical in notarization. AI tools automate compliance checks, swiftly identifying discrepancies and ensuring adherence to legal standards, thereby minimizing non-compliance risks.

Natural Language Processing for Document Drafting

AI also aids in document drafting through natural language processing (NLP), which helps notaries produce clear, legally precise documents. This is particularly beneficial for clients unfamiliar with legal jargon.

AI in Video Conferencing for Remote Notarizations

AI-enhanced video conferencing is essential for remote notarizations, providing identity verification, real-time document sharing, and ensuring secure and compliant processes.

AI Tools for Record Keeping and Storage

AI tools simplify record keeping by automating the organization and secure digital storage of documents, eliminating the need for extensive physical storage and ensuring easy access to records.

Enhancing Customer Experience

AI improves customer service by handling routine inquiries and scheduling through chatbots and virtual assistants, allowing notaries to focus on complex tasks.

Cost Savings and System Integration

Implementing AI in notary services reduces operational costs by automating tasks and minimizing errors, leading to more affordable services. AI tools seamlessly integrate with existing systems, enhancing capabilities without extensive overhauls.

Security and Privacy

Security and privacy are paramount. AI tools protect sensitive information with robust encryption and security protocols, ensuring confidentiality and security.

Staying Ahead with AI

As the notary industry evolves, AI tools enable notaries to meet increasing demands efficiently and reliably. Investing in AI is crucial for notaries aiming to future-proof their services, ensuring they stay ahead in a rapidly changing landscape.

Explore the Power of AI Tools for Notaries

AI-powered tools are transforming the notary industry, offering numerous benefits for homeowners and business owners. Adopting AI tools for notaries allows you to streamline your processes and stay ahead in a rapidly changing landscape. To learn more about the potential of AI in notary work, explore the different social media tips for notaries and start leveraging these innovative technologies today.

Share
>

March 15, 2024

Innovative Tactics for Notaries to Distinguish Themselves

Filed under: Comprehensive Guides — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

Notaries struggle to stand out in online directories in today’s digital world. They need to discover their point of difference for notaries. Identifying what sets them apart allows them to provide more than standard document signings, helping them stand out. These strategies are designed to showcase their distinct advantages, ensuring they rise above the competition with their special offerings.

A Unique Presence Through Customer Experience

Imagine walking into a space not to scribble a name down and leave but to sit, sip, shake hands, and share a brief and pleasant interlude. Transforming your office into a haven for a good customer experience is the first step to notary distinctiveness.

Aesthetic and Practical Considerations

Notaries can create a more hospitable space by considering the aesthetics of their work environment. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and a warm color scheme can work wonders to ease an often-tense transaction. Add practical touches like a charging station, high-speed internet access, and basic refreshments to make the visit productive and memorable.

Personal Touches

Don’t underestimate the power of a personal touch. Greet your clients by name, inquire about their day, and be attentive to their needs. Remembering their preferences for tea or the newspaper eases the inking process and humanizes the professional relationship, potentially turning a one-time client into a loyal advocate.

Technology’s Hand in Notary Public Services

Integrating new technology into your notary services isn’t just about keeping up with the times; it’s about revolutionizing how you connect with and serve your clients. By weaving digital tools into your traditional workflow, you create opportunities for efficiency, security, and outstanding service that can set you apart.

The Digital Signature

Enabling clients to sign documents digitally can significantly streamline processes. It also shows a willingness to adapt alongside the evolving tech landscape, a trait highly valued by clients seeking quick and convenient services.

Remote Services

The pandemic has shown the necessity of remote services. For notaries, this means being able to notarize documents via video calls. While not universally accepted, this strategy can be a game-changer in areas where it’s legally sanctioned, offering notaries a vast, untapped client pool.

Marketing Magic for Mobile Notaries

In a saturated market, a mobile notary breaks through the monotony, quite literally, with the turn of a key.

The Power of Local SEO

Optimizing for local search engine results can help your mobile notary service pop up exactly when and where it’s needed. Utilize location-specific keywords and ensure your Google My Business profile is complete and up-to-date for quick, easy-to-find services.

Engaging on Social Media

Don’t just use social media to advertise services; engage with the community. Share tips on notarization, discuss law changes and be a virtual problem-solver to establish your brand as knowledgeable and accessible.

Certifying Unmistakable Professionalism

Your professionalism isn’t only about prohibiting unauthorized practice of law. It’s about ensuring quality service garners trust and builds a solid reputation, which can help solidify the point of difference for notaries.

Continuous Education

Stay ahead of the competition by investing in continuous education. Be the notary always aware of the latest trends and best practices and can better serve your clients.

Partnership with Legal Professionals

Building a network with lawyers and realtors creates a referral base and establishes you as part of the larger professional community dedicated to serving public needs.

Stand Out with Distinction

In the world of notarization, every detail counts as a point of difference for notaries. Enhancing your workspace and online presence are key marketing tips for mobile notary services. Successful notaries merge tradition with innovation, adapting to client needs while upholding trust and authenticity. Your seal isn’t just a stamp; it’s a commitment to value. Embrace the challenge to stand out, redefine notarization, and use your distinct mark to make a lasting impact. Blending visibility with exceptional service sets you apart in the digital age.

Share
>

January 26, 2024

Data Security Essentials for Modern Notaries

Filed under: Comprehensive Guides — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

In the modern age, where data breaches and cyber threats are increasingly common, notaries must be vigilant about data security. Understanding how notaries protect sensitive information is key for homeowners and business owners. This article delves into essential data security practices for notaries, ensuring that your confidential documents and personal information remain secure in the digital realm.

The Importance of Data Security for Notaries

Notaries play a pivotal role in the authentication of important documents. From property deeds to business contracts, notaries ensure the integrity and legality of these documents. However, with this responsibility comes the need to safeguard sensitive information against unauthorized access or cyber threats. In an era where digital transactions are becoming the norm, the importance of robust data security for notaries cannot be overstated.

Key Strategies for Ensuring Data Security

1. Secure Digital Storage and Encryption

One of the primary defenses against data breaches is secure digital storage. Notaries must utilize encrypted digital vaults to store sensitive documents. Encryption transforms the data into a code, preventing unauthorized users from accessing it. This ensures that the data remains unreadable to intruders even if a breach occurs.

2. Regular Software Updates and Patch Management

Cyber threats are ever-evolving, and so should the defense mechanisms. Regularly updating software and applying patches is crucial. These updates often include fixes for security vulnerabilities that hackers might exploit.

3. Strong Password Policies and Two-Factor Authentication

Implementing strong password policies is a must. Passwords should be complex and changed regularly. Additionally, using two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security, requiring a second verification form before access is granted.

4. Employee Training and Awareness

Human error can often be a weak link in data security. Training sessions for employees about the latest phishing scams and cyber threats are essential. Awareness can be a powerful tool in preventing accidental breaches.

5. Regular Audits and Compliance Checks

Regular audits of data security practices help in identifying any potential vulnerabilities. Compliance with local and international data protection regulations ensures that notaries are current with the latest legal requirements.

The Impact of Data Security on Client Trust

Choosing a notary prioritizing data security is crucial for homeowners and business owners. This ensures the safety of your personal information and builds trust. Knowing that your notary uses cutting-edge security measures gives peace of mind and enhances the overall experience.

Securing Sensitive Information in the Digital Age

Data security for notaries involves a comprehensive approach, including secure digital storage, regular software updates, strong password policies, employee training, and regular compliance checks. These practices are not just about protecting data; they are about maintaining trust and integrity in a digital world. As we continue to embrace digital transactions, the role of notaries in safeguarding sensitive information becomes even more paramount.

Homeowners and business owners must stay informed and ensure they work with notaries who prioritize data security. Speaking of staying informed, don’t forget to explore the best ways to find new Notary customers as you advance in your notarial practice. Stay secure, stay informed.

Share
>

November 10, 2023

Enhance Your Mobile Notary Business: Develop a Winning USP

Filed under: Comprehensive Guides — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

In the competitive world of mobile notary services, standing out from the crowd is essential for success. A Unique Selling Proposition (USP) can make all the difference, helping you differentiate your business and attract more clients. In this article, we will delve into the concept of USP for mobile notary services, offering insights into how to create and develop a compelling USP that will set your business apart from the rest.

USP for Mobile Notary Services

A USP is a crucial element of any business that provides a product or service. It represents the distinctive qualities and benefits that make your notary business offering unique and appealing to potential clients. When marketing your services, you should focus on value based selling, as opposed to selling on price alone, which will further differentiate your business from other low-cost providers.

Specialized Expertise

One effective USP for mobile notary services is to highlight your specialized expertise. Whether you excel in notarizing real estate documents, legal papers, or healthcare documents, showcasing your knowledge in a particular field can set you apart from generic mobile notary services. Clients will appreciate your industry-specific knowledge, making you the go-to notary for their needs.

Convenience and Flexibility

Mobile notary services are about convenience, so why not make it your USP? Emphasize your ability to travel to clients’ homes, businesses, or any location, offering flexibility that traditional notary services cannot. Let potential clients know that you’ll go the extra mile, both figuratively and literally, to meet their notarization needs.

Quick Turnaround

In the business world, time is money, and clients often require notarization services on tight schedules. Position your mobile notary service as the one that provides a quick turnaround. Emphasize your ability to accommodate last-minute requests, offering a same-day or next-day notarization service. This level of responsiveness can be a powerful USP that appeals to businesses and individuals alike.

Enhanced Security and Privacy

In a world where personal information is increasingly valuable and privacy concerns are growing, you can develop a USP by focusing on the security and confidentiality of your services. Assure clients that their sensitive documents will be handled with the utmost care, and take steps to secure your notarization processes to protect their information.

Competitive Pricing

Competitive pricing can be a compelling USP for your mobile notary service. Research the rates of local competitors and find a balance between profitability and affordability. Highlight your transparent pricing structure and willingness to match or beat the prices of other notary services, making your business an attractive choice for cost-conscious clients.

Exceptional Customer Service

Excellent customer service is a timeless USP that can set your mobile notary service apart. Always prioritize clear communication, responsiveness, and a friendly, professional demeanor when working with clients. This personal touch can create loyal customers who return to you for future notarization needs and refer your services to others.

Crafting Your Winning USP

In the highly competitive landscape of mobile notary services, developing a winning USP is a key strategy for success. By identifying your unique strengths and tailoring your USP to meet the specific needs of your target market, you can set your USP for mobile notary services apart from competitors. Whether you emphasize your specialized expertise, convenience and flexibility, quick turnaround, enhanced security and privacy, competitive pricing, or exceptional customer service, your USP will become the foundation of your success in the industry. Remember that your USP should attract clients and consistently deliver on its promises, ensuring that your mobile notary business thrives in the long term.

Share
>

August 18, 2023

Savvy Ways to Track Business Expenses

Filed under: General Articles — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

Are you a business owner looking for savvy ways to keep track of your expenses? Businesses of all types, including mobile notaries, must know the day-to-day costs of running operations. Keeping up with expenses is essential to stay afloat and growing. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some easy ways to keep track of business expenses so that you can gain better control over your finances.

Why Keep Track of Business Expenses?

At the heart of any thriving business lies a solid financial foundation. Keeping an organized record of your business expenses is like having a map that guides you through the financial landscape. It helps you understand where your money is going, identify areas of overspending, and make informed decisions about resource allocation.

your business’s inflow and outflow of money

Moreover, maintaining accurate expense records is a good practice and a legal requirement. Come tax season, having well-documented expenses will save you from potential audit headaches. It also enables you to claim legitimate deductions and minimize tax liabilities, ultimately contributing to your bottom line.

How to Keep Track of Business Expenses

1. Separate Business and Personal Finances: The first step is distinguishing between your personal and business finances. Open a separate business bank account and use dedicated business credit cards. This separation not only simplifies tracking but also enhances financial transparency.

2. Digital Tools and Software: Embrace technology using expense tracking software and apps. These tools offer user-friendly interfaces to input and categorize expenses, generating accurate reports with just a few clicks. Examples include QuickBooks, Xero, and Expensify.

3. Document Every Expense: From large purchases to small transactions, no expense is too insignificant to record. Gather and organize these documents systematically, whether it’s a receipt, invoice, or digital payment confirmation.

4. Categorize Expenses: Create categories that align with your business operations. Common categories include office supplies, utilities, travel expenses, marketing, and employee salaries. Categorizing expenses facilitates analysis and aids in budgeting.

5. Regular Reconciliation: Set aside weekly or monthly to reconcile expenses. Compare your records against bank statements to identify any discrepancies or missing entries. This practice ensures the accuracy of your financial data.

Benefits of Keeping Track of Business Expenses

  1. Financial Clarity: To keep track of business expenses offers a valuable advantage: it provides a concise overview of your financial well-being. You can confidently make informed decisions by having a clear picture of your business’s inflow and outflow of money.
  1. Budgeting and Planning: Accurate expense tracking forms the basis for creating budgets and setting financial goals. It helps you allocate resources strategically and identify potential areas for cost-cutting.
  1. Tax Efficiency: Organized expense records simplify tax preparation. By categorizing and documenting expenses, you can easily claim deductions and credits, potentially reducing your tax burden.
  1. Identifying Trends: Regularly reviewing your expenses can reveal spending patterns and trends. This insight helps you identify unnecessary costs or areas where investment could yield better returns.
  1. Preventing Fraud and Errors: An organized expense tracking system can catch discrepancies that might indicate fraud or errors. This safeguards your business from financial harm and fosters a culture of transparency.

Final Thoughts on Tracking Businesses Expenses

In conclusion, keeping track of business expenses is essential to underpinning a prosperous entrepreneurial journey. Additionally, you can confidently navigate complex financial terrain using an expense-tracking app. As an entrepreneur, this knowledge provides immense value in ensuring legal obligations are met and sound decisions are made for your business. To learn more about leveraging this tactic, check out this blog post on how to be a successful mobile notary.

Share
>

June 16, 2023

Conquering Challenges Encountered by Notaries

Filed under: Notary Public 101 — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

As a notary, do you feel overwhelmed with the sheer number of challenges and obstacles that stand in your way? Do you ever get discouraged when it seems like every day brings new problems to solve? It’s hard for business owners to keep up with the demands of making things run smoothly. Still, luckily there are several top issues affecting notaries that can be proactively addressed. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the key steps you should take to get past the most frequent problems notaries see and create solutions that will benefit you personally and professionally.

Lack of Training

One of the biggest challenges facing notaries is the need for proper training. Many become notaries without fully comprehending the job prerequisites, which may result in mishandling particular situations or unintentional errors that could lead to legal issues. To resolve this, notaries must enroll in top-notch training programs encompassing all the job’s crucial aspects. These programs will assist notaries in comprehending their duties and how to navigate complex scenarios. Additionally, keeping up-to-date with any changes to laws or regulations that could impact the job is critical for notaries.

Document Fraud

As a notary, it is crucial to be aware of document fraud as it is a significant issue affecting the work. Fraudsters can manipulate documents or forge signatures for their advantage. To ensure the authenticity of the document being notarized and the identity of the signer at hand, we must be diligent in confirming their credentials and examining the document in detail. This includes asking for government-issued photo identification and carefully scrutinizing the document for any signs of tampering. Notaries must refuse to notarize the document and report it to the proper authorities if suspicions arise.

Quality of the Notaries

This profession is highly concerned about maintaining quality standards for notaries. Sadly, not all notaries adequately fulfill their responsibilities or follow established protocols. This, in turn, can lead to errors and legal complications, potentially damaging both the notary and their clientele. To address these shortcomings, it is vital that the industry demand heightened requirements and underscore the significance of the role. Notaries must ensure they maintain their professionalism and uprightness at all times. Additionally, joining professional organizations can furnish valuable backing and materials to support notaries’ work and encourage best practices.

Lack of Time

Notaries frequently encounter time limitations when notarizing documents, which can cause stress and mistakes for both the notary and the signer. To address this issue, notaries should prioritize scheduling appointments in advance to allow ample time to complete their work without feeling rushed. Additionally, notaries must have all essential materials and paperwork readily available to promote efficient work. Overcoming time constraints ensures the accuracy and professionalism needed in this critical role.

State-Specific Laws

Keeping track of state-specific laws and regulations is essential for notaries, as each state has its own set of rules. But staying up-to-date can be challenging, especially with ever-evolving changes. To overcome this daunting task, notaries can boost their knowledge by constantly being aware of the laws and regulations in their state. Joining a professional organization on the subject can also offer valuable resources and support.

Take Action, Shape A Future Where Notaries Thrive With Unwavering Integrity

Overcoming any challenge a notary may encounter can be daunting but achievable. It starts with having the right mindset and knowledge to tackle the issues head-on. Identifying the top issues affecting notaries is essential to prepare for all scenarios thoroughly. Fortunately, success and excellence in notarization are obtainable through dedication and resilience. Improving the quality of the notaries should always remain the top priority. Take the time and effort to read up on industry regulations, laws, and information consistently to ensure one’s capability as an E-Notary public remains current and up-to-date with ever-changing practices today.

Share
>

May 26, 2023

How to Find a Niche and Dominate It

Filed under: Notary Public 101 — Tags: , — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

In today’s fast-paced world, the demand for mobile notaries is on the rise. With people’s busy schedules, the convenience of having a notary come to their location is invaluable. But how can mobile notaries find a niche and differentiate themselves from the competition? In this blog post, we’ll explore the steps to identifying and dominating a niche market, ultimately helping you get more clients and grow your business.

Step 1: Research and Identify Opportunities

To find your niche, start by researching the various industries and sectors that require notary services. Some of the most common industries include real estate, legal, healthcare, finance, and education. Within these sectors, there might be smaller markets that have unmet notary needs. For example, you could focus on working with attorneys who handle real estate transactions or specialize in notarizing documents for international students at a local university.

Make a list of potential niche markets and then evaluate each based on factors such as competition, market size, and demand for notary services. Consider conducting interviews or surveys with potential clients to better understand their needs and pain points.

Step 2: Assess Your Skills and Expertise

When considering how can mobile notaries find a niche, it’s essential to take stock of your unique skills, expertise, and interests. Choose a niche that aligns with your strengths, and consider any specialized training or certifications you may have. This will not only make it easier for you to market your services but also help you provide the best service possible to your clients.

Step 3: Develop a Unique Value Proposition

Once you’ve identified your niche, it’s time to develop a unique value proposition (UVP) that sets you apart from other notaries. Your UVP should address the specific needs and pain points of your target market, emphasizing the benefits and solutions you provide. For example, if your niche is working with the elderly population, your UVP could be your ability to accommodate their needs by offering flexible hours and providing services in the comfort of their homes.

Step 4: Create a Marketing Strategy

To dominate your niche, you need to create a marketing strategy that effectively targets your chosen market segment. Develop a clear and consistent message that communicates your UVP and resonates with your target audience. Utilize various marketing channels, such as social media, email marketing, and content marketing, to reach your audience and generate leads.

Consider creating a website and blog that showcases your expertise and provides valuable information related to your niche. This will help establish you as an authority in your field and attract potential clients.

Step 5: Network and Build Relationships

Networking is crucial when it comes to dominating a niche. Attend industry-specific events, join online forums, and participate in discussions related to your niche. This will help you stay informed about the latest trends and developments while also giving you the opportunity to connect with potential clients and other professionals in your field.

Establishing strong relationships with your clients is equally important. Provide exceptional customer service, and be sure to follow up with your clients after the completion of a job. Happy clients are more likely to refer you to their friends and colleagues, helping you grow your business.

Find Your Mobile Notary Niche and Dominate It

In conclusion, finding and dominating a niche market is a strategic way for mobile notaries to stand out from the competition and get more clients. By identifying opportunities, assessing your skills, developing a unique value proposition, creating a marketing strategy, and networking, you’ll be well on your way to establishing yourself as the go-to notary in your chosen niche.

Share
>

July 14, 2021

How valuable are the various types of notary knowledge?

Filed under: Uncategorized — admin @ 3:19 am

Notaries these days who invest in Notary education study all types of topics. Some study Notary basics, others study TRID, Reverse Mortgages, Helocs, situational knowledge, elite knowledge, or just plain signing agent knowledge. Marketing skills are also taught by many agencies. So, which skills are the most valuable?

As a signing agent, companies typically babysit you unless you are very advanced and work purely for title companies. If you make mistakes, that is very unprofessional, but they generally catch you before it is too late due to the scan backs and fax backs. Notaries do not get complaints about errors on our site these days. When they do get complaints it is because they are rude or don’t show up, don’t return phone calls, or don’t get documents back on time.

So, let me make a pecking order of Notary skills in an order that makes logical sense to me.

Notary knowledge
If you don’t know how to be a solid Notary, you are endangering the public as well as yourself and leaving yourself open to legal liability. A mistake identifying someone, or filling out your journal can lead to a lawsuit, or lack of evidence in a legal proceeding. That is very serious and can ruin not only you, but all who are involved in a transaction with you. Failing to properly administer an Oath (when required) can lead to the termination of your commission if you ever get caught and is considered Perjury which is a Federal crime! If you don’t fill out forms properly or follow Notary law and procedure, you can ruin your life. So, Notary knowledge is the highest priority as a Notary Signing Agent and THAT is why we teach the finer points at no cost in Notary Public 101 on the blog.

Signing Agent knowledge
Knowing how to initial, date a right to cancel, and understanding the basic documents in a home-owner Refinances are skills that you will need to use a lot. You can ruin a signing if you miss signatures or initials, or put wrong dates on documents. Signing Agent skills seems to be a definite #2 in the pecking order of what you should study.

Marketing
If you know your basics, but don’t know how to attract work, you might get a few jobs here and there, but won’t have a side career of any scope. Learning Notary marketing is easy because there are good teachers everywhere. 123notary and LSS do a nice job teaching notary marketing. Some of the knowledge is available in our loan signing course and a lot more is on the blog in the marketing category on the right.

Specialty Skills
It is always good to learn more. Being TRID trained, or trained in reverse signings is great. But, that is the last step in my opinion. It impresses clients when you go above and beyond in your training. It shows motivation and effort and makes them more likely to hire you. But, learn the other stuff first as that is a lot more critical for basic survival.

How many certifications should I get?
The more the merrier. If you advertise with us, you should consider ours. If you are a paid member, we sometimes offer to test you by phone at no cost if you study from Notary Public 101, but we get very few takers. Our test is the hardest in the industry and our teaching materials are the most practical — and NOT the most expensive. We have the least expensive certification compared to the big players!

Share
>

January 12, 2021

Gender or no gender

Filed under: General Stories — admin @ 1:11 pm

I read that in Vermont, and this could spread to other states faster than Covid, that gender distinctions are not used on short form acknowledgments. Let me know, that as a Notary, your job is to identify the signer. Part of identifying them is to see the name, serial number on the ID, and gender. If you bypass their gender, you are one step closer to identity confusion.

The reason our elections were compromised is that there were a lot of mail in ballots where signatures often didn’t match, people voting 30 times, etc., By undermining the notary process even in small ways, you are undermining the purpose of having notaries in the first place.

Some liberals might suggest having a 3rd gender option for the crossover types. But, the reality is that we are born a particular gender and the chromosomes in all of our cells do not change even when we get a sex change or are transitioning.

Discussion with God

ME: God, I heard that according to Judaism, your nature encompases both genders as well as a center column energy. It’s kind of a Kabbalistic thing.

GOD: Ummm. Kind of busy right now. Can you text me?

ME: Oh, sorry, is this not a good time?

GOD: Now’s not a good time… I’m transitioning.

ME: But, you are already both genders, what is there to transition to?

GOD: During creation there is a building aspect, and then a nurturing aspect, design aspect, destruction aspect. These processes use completely different sides of my “personality.”

ME: God, don’t you mean… “Godonality?”

GOD: Good choice of words.

Share
>
Older Posts »