Posted by GOLDGIRL/CA on 8/13/10 12:46pm
Msg #348836

Out there marketing idea?

My town is allowing local businesses to set up tables at an upcoming Farmer's Market. I'm tempted to set up my notary business table with a big sign - but is that a totally stupid idea? - to be next to Mary Kay Cosmetics (certificate for free facial); Joe's Floors (10% off next order); mail store (passport photo discount). etc. Has anybody ever done/seen anything like this? I guess I'd more or less just be handing out cards to anybody who looked half-way interested - tho somebody might actually have a document to sign. Or is this just too tacky? Actually, this sounds perfect for a real estate agency or lender, but I don't see any of them signed up. TIA!

Reply by Les_CO on 8/13/10 1:01pm
Msg #348838

It couldn’t hurt. It may get you a lot of local, non-loan closing (cash) business. Take a bunch of cards, and a big smile.

Reply by mwm143 on 8/13/10 1:20pm
Msg #348841

I don't think a Farmer's market is an appropriate venue for professionals. That's why you don't see real estate agents, lenders, signing agents, attorneys, doctors etc. at them.

Reply by Cari on 8/13/10 1:25pm
Msg #348842

VERY GOOD IDEA! In fact, you should print out some flyers

about what you do in a summary or bullet point form. Also include some notary public facts, and if there are any NEW notary laws, list those to. Set up balloons, give away pens, school supply stuff, anything sort of attractive that will bring folks to your table!

Don't sell yourself short - that is prime opportunity for you to get to know your local businesses and for local folks to get to know you, and what you do! Not to mention referrals!

Who knows, you may have one or two customers at the end!

You may look out of place, BUT, that's totally going to be your ADVANTAGE!

Reply by jba/fl on 8/13/10 5:56pm
Msg #348890

VERY GOOD IDEA! Jump on it! Cari is so right!

In a picture frame put the story in Msg #348874
and in another mention that you feel it is so important to have a living will, citing Terri Schiavo story and that you will notarize one for free. There are back to school items needing you, sports sign ups needing you, and the list goes on and on. A card to everyone is better than a magnet on your car almost as it is in their hands and they aren't looking for a pen/paper to write down info.

BTW: I'll bet there is a phone company there. Let me know if I win that one.

Reply by PAW on 8/13/10 1:26pm
Msg #348843

Re: Out there marketing idea? I've done it!

It was fairly successful. But, I also advertised that I would be at the event, and to call before hand to set up an appointment. During the call I was able to ascertain what types of documents there were looking for to be notarized and whether or not witnesses would be required. If witnesses were required, I told them that we would need to schedule an appointment for later since there were no facilities really for privacy and room for two signers and witnesses.

I had postcard sized advertisements with a 10% coupon on the back (expired in 60 days). Got a few clients and two on-the-spot notarizations (and payment).

Fortunately for me, the tables were free. But now, the people putting on the event want to rent the tables and spaces. I didn't get enough business two years ago to pay for rental space, so I passed last year and probably will again this year.

Reply by James Dawson on 8/13/10 1:34pm
Msg #348846

If no body else is doing...that's a good enough reason....where did you say this happening? Only kidding,..good luck!

Reply by Moneyman/TX on 8/13/10 7:14pm
Msg #348897

I think it would be a great idea. Anything to get your businesses name out is a good thing. That is if you are looking for general notary work, which I assume is why you are even considering it. As others have pointed out, you can use it as an opportunity to educate the public and advertise the services you offer. Everyone will, at some time, need the services of a notary public. The cards you pass out may or may not be used by the people you hand it to. I would do it!

Reply by ReneeK_MI on 8/14/10 5:51am
Msg #348935

Outstanding idea!

From either end of the spectrum - whether you set it all up in advance like Paul did, or you just sit with a plate of cookies & hand-outs, I think it's a great opportunity you're creating for yourself, and that's how you set yourself apart from the 'pack'. =)

Reply by kathy/ca on 8/14/10 10:35am
Msg #348947

In my town, RE agents and other professionals DO this at our

Farmers Market and they DO get business from it. Go for it Goldgirl, you have nothing to lose. By the way, what town are you in in CA?