The 1% Notary
Most everyone wants to be on the top of their game. So what separates the top notch 1% notaries?
The fact is most of it is simple. And attention to detail just takes some patience and determination.
What are the Standards?
So what is the golden standard to become one of the top 1% notaries?
- Getting Certified
- Dress for Success
- Attention to Detail
- Prompt Service
- Knowledge About the Signing
What is the Best Way to Become a Certified Notary?
Most of you already are, but for those who are not a notary, you must be commissioned by your state. Laws do vary by state, but the main part of the process remains the same.
Beyond that it is highly recommended to become certified with the National Notary Association. There is no real thing as a national notary license, but the benefits of becoming certified by the NNA are well worth it.
This is essentially notary training, passing an exam, as well as a background check.
This is especially important for loan closings and mortgage documents. These jobs pay better and require a notary that is highly trained. A good amount of them only use NNA certified notaries. A certification is important for your endeavors and helps you make more money.
The 1% Notary Dresses for Success
You are a professional, so dress like it. Don’t go rolling into a signing looking less than your best. That doesn’t mean Black Tie, but a nice pair of pants and at least a polo top shows makes an impact to both the client and the signer. It shows you are serious about your job. And you know what they say about first impressions.
The 1% Notaries Pay Attention to Detail
It takes time, knowledge and experience to do the tough signings. That is one reason why becoming certified by the NNA is important.
Paying attention to detail is a pillar to becoming a 1% notary. It saves you money. It saves the client frustration. It keeps the signing service happy and helps make sure you become someone they can trust and send business to.
Having to return to properly finish the work, and scheduling with the signer is a cardinal sin. No one is perfect, but that does not mean you cannot be better than everyone else. Arm yourself with knowledge, double check your work, and finish it on time. Spare yourself the hit to your reputation. One mistake can cost you a client that you may have done a lot more signings with.
A 1% Notary Provides Prompt Service
Remember your clients are on a deadline. Title companies do a lot of work and the last thing they need is to worry about the notary.
So, be on time. To be the top 1% Notary, show up a few minutes early. Try to think of it as signing time is five minutes early. If for some reason you are delayed by a few minutes, make sure to give the client a call so they know when to expect you. But, avoiding that situation is one thing that separates you from the crowd.
Squeeze in those last minute signings if there is a way you can. Come to the rescue for a client. Almost nothing will aid your reputation more than saving a signing. Do you want to be the notary that cancels, or the notary that saves the day?
So make sure you are prompt. Don’t let a client sweat. Don’t make them keep one eye on the clock. Let them know that you are a reliable professional they can count on.
Knowledge About the Signing
You need to have knowledge of the process/details to do your job right. Delays in the process make you look bush league. You need to be prepared if others make a mistake, because at the end of the day, it all still comes back to you.
Only answer questions that are germane to your part of the signing. Direct any other questions to the proper person. Never offer advice to a signer.
Always being in command of the situation sets you apart and helps you become a 1% notary.
To Wrap it Up
One final piece of advice.
Watch your temperament. Stay calm, cool and collected. Even if you are a bit frustrated it is imperative the client does not see it. Stay in control of the situation.
It is not impossible to become a 1% notary, but at a minimum follow these rules.
At the end of the day, do you want to be another person in the crowd, or the person who everyone can depend on? That is what separates the 1% notary from all of the rest.
What to Do Next?
You need more practical information about how to operate in the field.
For those serious about becoming a top-tier notary, continuing education and real-world preparation matter. Resources like The Mobile Notary Blueprint can help bridge the gap between getting commissioned and actually performing at a high level. You can check it out by clicking the image below.
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