Posted by ME/NJ on 7/24/12 2:50pm
Msg #427905

Another EOM nears

Everyone have a good one.

Reply by ikando on 7/24/12 5:32pm
Msg #427926

Usually I get calls from the 18th on. So far this month, I've received none. But I'm not upset.

I have been blocking with BlackList those companies that don't want to offer a fee close to what I need to stay in business. Therefore, I don't hear the phone ringing. I've been hearing more from clients in my other business, so I'm not going broke. And I'm not being frustrated by requests to drive 50 miles one way for $60.

So, since my phone isn't ringing for undesired contacts, I'm more open for those companies who want a professional, experienced person to help them with their projects for a reasonable fee.

Reply by ToniK on 7/24/12 7:30pm
Msg #427936

Same here. I have 3 of my biggest clients tell me my fee of $xxx is too high for them and they are using lower fee notaries. Two of them say they want to keep me on as I do good work but only if I lower my fee to $75. Then the other said they have been using $55 notaries and there are alot of them willing to drive 30-40 miles one way for $55. WOW!!! I live in Northern VA, that amounts to a min of 1.5 hr in traffic.

So my volume is down. Luckily I have other govt consulting work that keeps me gainfully employed.

Reply by redd on 7/25/12 7:05am
Msg #427964

I am sensing my volume is down as well due to this $50 and $75 base fee stuff. I can only hope they are getting what they pay for.

Reply by BobbiCT on 7/25/12 12:38pm
Msg #428012

Anyone notice a trend?

NOT to slam the new-to-the-industry, but this seems to come up more often than not in July through September - bottom fee acceptances before realizing up front out-of-pocket expenses and taxes exceed gross income (assuming income is reported to IRS and state LOL) or new NSA is closer to assignment and lower fee is profitable under his/her business model.

Coincidentally each year,shortly after newly certified NSAs emerge from a June national conference and start calling & marketing, this happens. The often-heard business model: work cheap to get a foot in the door under the "you will be paid more once you have experience with the company" or "you will make it up on volume" business model. Sadly, "move on to the next lowest fee NSA when this one asks for more" is also part of the business equation.