Posted by Omega Rose Mobile Notary - Rose on 11/30/11 5:46pm
Msg #405349

Looking for the assistance of my fellow Notaries

I read through many messages of Notaries who are just swamped with business. I am in Riverside, CA and it seems we are swamped with Notaries. Is there a secret list??? I know we all have to go through the ropes and due the time, well I have been through the ropes and done the time, but there are no open doors. Any suggestions????

Reply by SheilaSJCA on 11/30/11 5:54pm
Msg #405350

How long have you been in business? Can take a yr or 2...

How long have you been in business?

Reply by Mike Goodey on 11/30/11 9:34pm
Msg #405366

Well, I have been in business for 6+ years and I'm still adding my name to lists...no, there is no secret list...and yes, you and I compete for the same area business. You must be diligent in continuing to market yourself. Yes, we are swamped with notaries in our area so you must stand out. But please don't whine... If I get a call that I can't do, maybe I'll recommend you...maybe not.

Reply by FeliseSoCal on 12/1/11 7:09pm
Msg #405531

I've been in business 9 years...

I still work at business development. There will always be turnover and slow times. The only way to be successful and stay in this industry is to WORK at it, be creative with your marketing, stand out by providing the best service, and do your own research and cultivate your own client relations by pounding the pavement. That's the difference between being self-employed and punching a time clock. There are no free rides...

Reply by JanetK_CA on 12/1/11 12:22am
Msg #405392

Unfortunately, you're in one of the areas hardest hit by the mortgage meltdown. Tons of foreclosures and a high percentages of homes underwater - which translates into difficulty for people to qualify for refinances. This business varies significantly by region. And when business volume is low, the decent assignments will go to those with experience and a track record and the rest will be offered up by the low-ball companies who don't want to pay well - if at all.

This is one of the reason you see so many comments to newbies here recommending that they do a business plan which includes research on their local market. A lot of those recommendations come from the voices of experience in the school of hard knocks...

To compete in a market like that, you may want to consider finding a niche, or specializing in something, then you have to promote, promote, promote and network, network, network. It will not be easy and not all will make it, but some will, if they're willing to pay the price.

Reply by CJ on 12/1/11 12:45am
Msg #405396

Everyone here is competing for the same piece of pie. There is no secret list. There is just diligence and doing your best to be the best notary out there so that they remember you and call you back.