If you’ve ever witnessed a couple exchange vows and thought, “Dang, I’d love to be part of something that joyful,” this post is for you! Being a wedding officiant isn’t just about saying “You may now kiss the bride.” It’s about holding sacred space for people on one of the most important days of their lives. And yeah, it’s also a pretty great way to expand your services and earn extra income (without needing to carry a printer in your trunk or wait on a signing service). To break it all down for you, I’ve asked my dear friend Selecia Young-Jones, owner of the fabulous Rainbow Wedding Chapel in Jacksonville, Florida, to share her experience. She’s officiated hundreds of weddings with grace, humor, and heart..and she's spilling all the tea on what it takes to get started, and how to add this meaningful role to your notary or mobile service toolkit. Get ready to be inspired because this could be the next chapter you never saw coming. Without further ado, let's hear from Selecia: Selecia Young-Jones and Jen Neitzel having too much fun at 2022's Philly Social As a notary, you're already in the business of serving people during some of life's most important moments. But have you considered expanding your services to include wedding officiating? By leveraging your notary commission, you can tap into a lucrative and deeply fulfilling market, joining couples in matrimony. Whether you're in a state where notaries already have the authority to officiate weddings or you're seeking additional ministry credentials, this could be the perfect opportunity to diversify your business and make a lasting impact on your clients' lives.   Why Add Wedding Officiating to Your Services?   1. Increase Your Earning Potential 💵 Wedding officiating can significantly boost your income. Weddings are a billion-dollar industry, and couples are willing to invest in officiants who can create a personalized and meaningful ceremony. Depending on the location and type of service, officiants can charge anywhere from $150 to $1,000 per ceremony.    2. Expand Your Client Base 🌱 Adding wedding officiating to your services allows you to market to a broader audience. Couples looking for officiants often need other services like notarizing prenuptial agreements, marriage licenses, or even apostille services for international marriages.   3. Make a Personal Impact 👊 Marrying couples is an incredibly rewarding experience. As an officiant, you play a pivotal role in one of the happiest days of a couple's life. It's a meaningful way to connect with your community and celebrate love in all its forms.   4. Take Advantage of Your Existing Skills 🎯 As a notary, you already possess key qualities that make you a great officiant: professionalism, attention to detail, and a commitment to accuracy. These skills translate seamlessly into the wedding officiant role.   5. Stay Flexible 💪 Wedding officiating can be as full-time or part-time as you'd like. Whether you're looking to fill gaps in your schedule or create a steady stream of bookings, officiating gives you flexibility while allowing you to maintain your notary business.   Here's How to Get Started   1. Check Your State Laws  Some states, like Florida, Nevada, and South Carolina, allow notaries to perform weddings as part of their commission. If you're in one of these states, you can start officiating without additional steps.  If not, please check your state laws for becoming a wedding officiant. 2. Obtain Ministry Credentials If your state doesn’t grant notaries the authority to officiate weddings, you can easily become ordained through organizations like:     ✨ American Marriage Ministries ✨ Universal Life Church These organizations offer free or low-cost online ordination, giving you the legal authority to perform ceremonies in most states.   3. Market Your Services Create a dedicated page on your website, share testimonials, and leverage platforms like social media and wedding directories to showcase your new services. Highlight your unique qualifications as both a notary and officiant to stand out.   4. Build Packages Consider bundling your officiant services with notary services. For example, you can offer a "wedding essentials" package that includes officiating, notarizing the marriage license, and a keepsake certificate.   Today’s couples are looking for inclusive, personalized ceremonies. By positioning yourself as a notary/wedding officiant, you meet a growing demand for professionals who can seamlessly blend practicality with a heartfelt touch. Plus, with the rise of elopements, micro-weddings, and destination weddings, there are plenty of opportunities to carve out a niche.   As a Notary and Wedding Officiant in Florida, I have fallen in love with being a wedding officiant. As www.904rainbow.com , the Rainbow Wedding Chapel, I have found a great way to marry people in my chapel across from the Clerk of Courts. We have an express wedding called "Married In A Minute" or couples can choose a longer ceremony if they like. The opportunities of a wedding ceremony are endless.  I have just returned from the www.weddingmba.com show in Las Vegas. It hosts 6000 participants and a couple of hundred vendors. The industry is strong, and the creativity flows with these people.  Expanding your notary business to include wedding officiating is not just a smart business move; it’s a chance to make a difference in people’s lives. Whether you’re joining couples under the sun or officiating a cozy backyard ceremony, the possibilities are endless.   So why wait? Start your journey as a wedding officiant today and let your notary business grow in love and profitability.   P.S. Already a wedding officiant? Add your profile to  https://www.officiantdirectory.com/ . Your FREE profile helps couples find you.  Share your tips and experiences with our community! We'd love to hear how combining your notary and officiant services has transformed your business.  Any questions? Call or Write Selecia at 904-333-7311 or info@904rainbow.com 👉 For more marketing tips, resources, and strategies tailored to notaries, visit Marketing4Notaries.com

It may be Small Business Month, but this is my favorite meme to share in May! #NSync4ever May is here, and you know what that means. ..flowers are blooming, the pollen count is trying to kill us all, and small businesses like yours and mine are getting their moment in the spotlight . Small Business Month isn’t just about patting ourselves on the back and posting #shopsmall once. It’s a prime opportunity to: deepen relationships, show up in your community, and (bonus!) market your business without feeling gross about it. Here’s how to turn a celebratory month into a strategic relationship builder, the Marketing4Notaries way. 💬 1. Start Conversations That Don’t Feel Like a Sales Pitch We all hate the fake “let’s collaborate!” messages that are just sneaky sales attempts. Instead, use Small Business Month as a genuine reason to reach out. Try this message: “Hey [Name], I’ve always admired what you’re doing with [Business Name]. For Small Business Month, I’m highlighting some incredible local businesses in my community. I’d love to include you!” You’re not asking for anything—you’re offering. That’s powerful. 💡 Take it further: Post a photo of them and tag their business on social media with a heartfelt comment. “This is Jess from Jess’s Java. Her lattes are life-giving, and so is her smile. #SmallBusinessMonth #SupportLocal” Why it works: You're building trust. You're publicly showing love. You're starting a relationship without selling a thing. And that is marketing gold. 📸 2. Do a “Small Business Month Local Legends” Spotlight (With Strategy) Pick 4–5 small businesses in your area and run a short weekly spotlight series all month long. You can: Film short “day in the life” interviews on your phone Take photos of their space, product, or team Ask them one great question: “What’s one thing you wish more people knew about running a small business?” 📈 Marketing twist: Each post ends with: “Know a small business that deserves a shoutout? Tag them in the comments and I’ll feature one more next week!” This gets engagement, grows your reach, and strengthens your community cred. 🎁 3. Partner Up for a Small Biz Giveaway Giveaways work. Period. But instead of doing a one-off gift card promo, think like a connector. Bring 2–3 businesses together for a bundle giveaway. Example: Win a “Local Legends Bundle” with: $25 from [Coffee Shop], a free [Notary/Trust Doc Delivery] from you, and a custom cookie box from [Bakery]. Total value: $100+! Each business posts it, tags the others, and everyone grows their audience while building real relationships. Insider tip: Want even more bang for your giveaway buck? Ask each person who enters to follow all participating businesses and tag one small business they love. Boom! Engagement + exposure. ☕ 4. Host a Pop-In Tour With Purpose Dust off your business cards (and your best “I’m here to connect, not sell” smile) and start a Pop-In Tour of local businesses. Here’s how it works: Pick 5–10 local businesses you admire or want to work with. Bring them something small—coffee, mini treat bags, or a handwritten card. Say: “I just wanted to thank you for being a part of this small business community. May is our month, and I’m celebrating by showing love to my favorite locals.” 🎯 Pro move: Include a QR code on a postcard that links to your services, newsletter opt-in, or a page on your website all about how you serve other small business owners. 💌 5. Reconnect with Clients Through Old-School Gratitude We’re talking thank-you notes . Handwritten. Snail mail. The kind of thing that makes people go, “Wow, no one does this anymore.” “I wanted to personally thank you for supporting my small business. It’s people like you who keep this dream alive, and I’m so grateful. If you ever need [what you offer], I’m here.” 🧠 Client psychology alert: People remember how you make them feel . Appreciation creates stickiness. Sticky clients = referrals. Referrals = growth. ✨ Bonus Ideas If You’re Feeling Extra: Host a mini workshop or Q&A on a topic that helps other small businesses (even on Facebook or Instagram Live) Create a “Small Biz Bingo” card to encourage people to visit multiple local spots (great if you have a storefront or pop-up table!) Do a “Behind the Scenes” reel of what owning your business really looks like—people love the messy truth 🔥 Reminder: Small Business Month is the perfect mix of celebration and strategy. It’s not about doing more . It’s about doing the right things with purpose. Be generous. Be visible. Be someone who lifts others up. Because when you build real relationships? You don’t need a sales pitch. Your community becomes your marketing. Want to learn how to build a referral machine out of authentic connections? 👉 Join Marketing4Notaries and get plugged into the only community where relationship-driven marketing is the norm, not the exception.

Laura Biewer & Jen Neitzel in Montana at their 2025 Notary Conference This month I asked my notary bestie, Laura Biewer with CoachMeLaura.com to share some of her best tips for successful loan signings. It's the time of year when we should be expecting an uptick in this part of our business. Here, Laura gives her top-tier advice to help you run a smooth, efficient closing. 😀 In the fast-paced world of loan signings, efficiency is crucial—not just for maximizing your time, but also for enhancing the overall experience for signers. I want to share key strategies that can help you improve efficiency during loan or trust signings without compromising the quality of the process. Why Efficiency Matters Improving efficiency in your signing process has several benefits: Maximize Your Day: fit more assignments into your workday by streamlining tasks. Optimize Your Earnings: spend less time on lower-paying jobs, allowing you to focus on higher-value assignments. Create Buffer Time: add extra time for calls, document drops, and well- deserved breaks. Promote Health: minimize discomfort related to repetitive strain, such as carpal tunnel and arthritis. Balance Quality and Speed: strive for a workflow emphasizing efficiency and effectiveness. 5 Areas to Streamline Here are five critical areas where you can enhance your signing process: 1. Acceptance/Pre-Appointment: carefully evaluate assignments before accepting them to ensure they align with your expertise and availability. 2. Set Up at the Table/Instructions: ensure your signing area is organized and you provide clear instructions to signers right from the start. 3. Presentation of Documents: present documents in a logical order and explain their purpose clearly to the signer. 4. Notarization: be meticulous in your notarization process, ensuring all required elements are completed legibly. 5. Journal Entries: keep track of your notarial acts efficiently, documenting what is necessary to comply with your state's requirements. Methods to Save Time (Proactive Management) Conversations with Signers: engage in clear and proactive communication with signers before the appointment to address any questions or concerns. Preparation of Package/Notary Instructions: prepare all documents and instructions beforehand to avoid delays during the signing. Table Setup: arrange your signing table to promote efficiency, ensuring everything is within reach. Instructions to Signers: provide step-by-step guidance to signers to minimize confusion and speed up the process. Documentation Shortcuts: use tools like certificate and journal stamps or out- of-state certificates to save time on documentation. Notarization of Documents Out-of-State Wording: when applicable, use out-of-state wording for notarizations to streamline the process. Simultaneous Work: while the signer reviews and signs documents, work on completing the notarization page to save time. Use of Stamps: employ certificate wording stamps and date, county, and name stamps to simplify your tasks. See Attached Certificate stamps: use these stamps to clarify documentation without adding extra writing. Journal Entries - Paper Shortcuts for Non-Requiring States: if your state doesn't require a journal, simplify your entries for multiple documents and signers. Efficiency for Required Journals: for those requiring journals, use shortcuts for repetitive information to speed up the process. Utilize Stamps: consider using stamps for common entries like dates and document types and the word ACKNOWLEDGEMENT to enhance efficiency. Track Minimum Entries: start with essential entries—time, notary act, document name, and signer name—and backfill other details as time allows. E-Journal: if allowed in your state, move to an electronic journal for traditional notarization work. It can reduce your time significantly. Try www.juratinc.com Conclusion Implementing these strategies can significantly enhance our efficiency and effectiveness during loan signings. Improving our workflow ensures a smoother experience for our clients and gives you time to interact with them at the table. If you have any questions or need further details, please don't hesitate to reach out— www.Calendly.com/biewer for a free strategy call. Here's to working smarter, not harder! At your service, Laura Biewer www.coachmelaura.com Bestselling author Beyond Loan Signings - Amazon www.linkedin.com/in/laurajbiewer

April is Physical Wellness Month: It's Time to Move Before You Morph into a Desk Chair Sitting is the new smoking! April is Physical Wellness Month, and since I firmly believe that taking care of my body is crucial to being the best business owner I can be, I want to share some small but mighty ways we can all prioritize our health. Why? Because I’ve learned the hard way that constantly living in a state of stress and calling it “being busy” is just a one-way ticket to Burnoutville. And let me tell you, there’s no first-class section there. We’ve all been there—sitting for hours at our desks, powering through work, convincing ourselves that we’ll move later . Spoiler alert: later never comes. Meanwhile, our bodies are over here screaming, “Hey! We were designed to move! Why are we basically a human paperweight?” The Science of Sitting: It’s Not Pretty Studies show that excessive sitting is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and even premature death. (Yes, really.) According to the Mayo Clinic, people who sit for more than eight hours a day with no physical activity have a risk of dying similar to the risks of smoking and obesity. Yikes. But here’s the kicker: Even if you work out for an hour a day, it doesn’t erase the damage of sitting for extended periods. Our bodies need regular movement throughout the day, not just a single burst of treadmill time. The Entrepreneur’s Predicament: We Sit… A Lot As business owners, we sit to work, we sit to officiate signing ceremonies, we sit at networking lunches, and we sit some more to check our emails about all the sitting we did. No wonder our bodies rebel! The good news is there are easy ways to incorporate movement into your day that don’t require a gym membership or the flexibility of a Cirque du Soleil performer. Notaries, Here Are Small, Doable Changes to Get You Moving The One-Minute Rule: Every hour, get up and move for at least one minute. Stretch, pace, do a quick set of squats, or just stand and shake out your limbs like a malfunctioning inflatable tube man. It resets your body and brain. Walk and Talk: Have a phone call? Take it while walking. Studies show that walking improves cognitive function and problem-solving skills. Plus, it keeps you from mindlessly refreshing your inbox for the 20th time. Deskercise is a Thing: There are plenty of quick, effective exercises you can do right at your desk—seated leg lifts, shoulder shrugs, neck stretches, or even standing calf raises while waiting for your computer to unfreeze (again). Hydration = Forced Movement: The more water you drink, the more you have to get up and use the restroom. Nature’s way of keeping us moving! The 20-8-2 Rule: For every 20 minutes of sitting, aim to stand for 8 minutes and move for at least 2 minutes. Your circulation will thank you. Your Brain Loves Movement, Too Beyond physical health, regular movement boosts productivity, creativity, and mental clarity. Research from Stanford University found that walking increases creative output by up to 60%! Ever had a breakthrough idea while pacing around? That’s your brain on movement. And let’s not forget stress management. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, those magical little hormones that fight stress and boost your mood. So if you’ve ever felt like throwing your laptop out the window after a tough workday, try a brisk walk instead—it’s cheaper than buying a new laptop. The Takeaway: Move Now, Thank Yourself Later Incorporating more movement into your day doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small. Stand up more. Walk when you can. Stretch like your life depends on it (because, in some ways, it does). Your body—and your business—will thank you. Notaries this April, let’s make movement a priority. Because if we don’t, we might just become one with our desk chairs. And I don’t know about you, but I have bigger goals than that. Now , get up and move! (Yes, right now.)

Spring is in the air! Spring! The season of blooming flowers, longer days, and the perfect excuse to Marie Kondo your marketing plan. 🌸 As the weather warms up and the world shakes off its winter gloom, it’s the ideal time for notaries to refresh their marketing strategies and attract new clients. Just like your closets, your marketing efforts could probably use a little spring cleaning and a fresh burst of energy. So, grab your favorite pen (we know how much you love your pens) and let’s dive into the top 5 marketing tips for spring that will help your notary business grow—with a little humor and a lot of action! 1. Freshen Up Your Online Presence Spring is the perfect time to give your digital footprint a makeover. Think of your website and social media profiles as your virtual storefront. If they haven’t been updated since last spring, it’s time to spruce things up. 🌸 Here’s what to do: Update your profile picture: If your current headshot features a hairstyle from three years ago, it’s time for an upgrade. Get a fresh, professional photo that reflects your current look and personality. Review your bio and services: Make sure your offerings and contact information are up-to-date. You’d be surprised how many people forget to update their email address. Spruce up your testimonials: Ask recent clients for feedback and showcase those glowing reviews on your website, Google Business Profile (GBP) and social media. Your online presence is often the first impression potential clients get. A clean, current, and engaging profile says, “I’m professional, approachable, and ready to help.” 2. Host a Spring-Themed Giveaway or Promotion Who doesn’t love free stuff? Hosting a spring-themed giveaway or offering a seasonal discount is a fun way to engage your audience and attract new clients. 🌸 Ideas to Try: Spring into Savings” promotion: Offer a discount on your services for a limited time. For example, you could post a graphic to your GBP that says, “10% off for first-time clients during April!” Social media giveaway: Create a contest where participants can win a free notary service, a branded product or a special treat. Ask them to comment on your post, tag a friend, or share their favorite thing about spring to enter. Collaborate with local businesses: Partner with a real estate agent or estate planning attorney to offer joint promotions. Make it fun, engaging, and easy to participate. Not only will you boost visibility, but you’ll also build stronger relationships with your audience. 3. Get Out and Network—In Real Life Spring brings networking season back to life, and it’s time to get out there and meet people face-to-face. Yes, I know… mingling with strangers can feel about as comfortable as wearing a wool sweater on a warm day. But trust me, it’s worth it. Need help and support getting out of your own way? Marketing4Notaries can help! 🌸 Where to Start: Attend local business mixers or Chamber of Commerce events. Look for spring community festivals or fairs where you can set up a booth or share a booth with another local business owner. Organize your own networking meet-up at a coffee shop. Networking is all about building genuine relationships. Don’t worry about pitching your services right away. Instead, focus on learning about others and finding ways to support their businesses. And hey, if there’s free food involved, even better! 🍪 4. Spring Clean Your Client List Just like your closets, your client list might be cluttered with old contacts who no longer fit. Take some time to review your client database and organize it. 🌸 Why It Matters: Focus on quality over quantity: Reach out to your best clients and let them know you’re available and ready to help. Building stronger relationships with fewer clients can be more valuable than spreading yourself too thin. Follow up with dormant clients: Sometimes, people just need a gentle nudge. Reach out with a friendly email or message to remind them of your services. Segment your list: Group your clients into categories (real estate professionals, attorneys, individuals) so you can send more targeted marketing messages. A clean, organized client list means you can market more effectively and focus your energy where it matters most. 5. Create Seasonal Content for Social Media Spring is bursting with inspiration for fresh content. Your social media channels are the perfect place to connect with your audience and showcase your personality. 🌸 Content Ideas: Behind-the-scenes posts: Share what a day in the life of a notary looks like (bonus points for funny stories or unexpected moments). Spring tips and advice: Post helpful content related to your services, like “Top 3 Things to Bring to Your Notary Appointment” or “How to Avoid Common Signing Mistakes.” Celebrate your clients: Highlight your favorite client stories or milestones. Spring-themed photos: Share pictures of your workspace, local spring scenery, or even your favorite springtime snacks. Keep it light and fun! Don’t forget to engage with your followers. Respond to comments, ask questions, and create conversations. The more authentic you are, the more people will want to connect with you. ✅ Bonus Tip: Take Action None of these tips will work if they stay on your to-do list. The key to successful marketing is consistent action. Start with one or two strategies and build from there. Even small changes can make a big difference over time. So, dust off those business cards, update your online presence, and start planting the seeds that will help your notary business bloom this spring. You’ve got this! 🌷

🚨GUEST BLOG POST ALERT!🚨 I’m so excited to introduce my friend Jennifer Cooper from JKC Mobile Notary Services in Fresno, CA, as my special guest for this blog on the power of consistency. Jennifer and I have known each other for several years, and if there’s one word that perfectly captures who she is, it’s consistent . I’ve had the privilege of watching her build an incredible mobile notary business, expanding her services and creating a range of courses to help fellow notaries learn from her experiences. Jennifer is generous with her knowledge, passionate about helping others, and proof that steady, intentional effort leads to amazing results. I know you’re going to love this post as much as I did. Let’s dive into Jennifer’s insights on why consistency truly is the key to success! ⬇️ In the competitive world of notary services, success isn't about overnight miracles or flashy marketing stunts. It's about the quiet, persistent power of consistency – a secret weapon that transforms good businesses into great ones. Industry leaders like Jen Neitzel of Marketing4Notaries have shown that when notaries commit to consistent, strategic marketing efforts, remarkable transformations are possible. This is the story of how grit, determination, and a steadfast approach can elevate your notary business from merely existing to truly thriving. Consistency is the hidden engine of growth. It's not glamorous. It's not exciting. But it works. Imagine planting a seed and watering it every single day, even when you can't see immediate results. That's exactly how marketing your notary business operates. Each social media post, each networking event, each client interaction is a drop of water nurturing your business's growth. The Grit Mindset: Your Marketing Superpower Grit is more than just persistence – it's a commitment to your vision even when the results aren't immediate. For notary professionals, this means: 1. Showing up consistently, even when it feels like no one is paying attention. Your marketing efforts are a long-term investment. A social media post today might generate a client six months from now. Your persistence creates visibility and builds trust. 2. Developing a systematic approach to marketing. Create a content calendar. Set regular networking goals. Establish a routine for reaching out to potential clients. Consistency turns marketing from a sporadic activity into a reliable business strategy. 3. Embracing rejection and slow periods as part of the journey. Every successful notary business has faced dry spells. The difference is in how you respond – with determination or defeat. Long-Term Results: The Compound Effect of Consistent Marketing Think of your marketing efforts like compound interest. Small, consistent actions build upon each other, creating exponential growth over time. Just as Marketing4Notaries teaches, a notary who posts helpful content weekly, maintains an updated website, and actively networks will see remarkable results after 12-24 months that seem almost magical to those who don't understand the power of consistency. Practical Strategies for Consistent Marketing: - Create a weekly content schedule for social media - Send monthly newsletters to your client base - Attend networking events regularly - Follow up with past clients periodically - Continuously update your skills and certifications The Psychological Advantage Consistency does more than generate leads – it builds a brand. Clients want reliability, especially in a service like notarization where trust is paramount. When you show up consistently, you're sending a powerful message: "I am dependable. I am professional. I am here for the long haul." Overcoming the Consistency Challenge Let's be real – staying consistent is hard. There will be days when you're tired, discouraged, or overwhelmed. This is where the grit mindset becomes crucial. Set realistic goals. Create accountability systems. Celebrate small wins. Remember that every consistent action is a step toward your ultimate business vision. Your Notary Business: A Marathon, Not a Sprint Success in the notary business isn't about working harder – it's about working smarter and more consistently. It's about showing up, day after day, with unwavering commitment to your craft and your marketing strategy. As thousands of successful notaries who've completed professional training programs like Marketing4Notaries can attest, consistent effort combined with proven strategies yields extraordinary results. The world belongs to those who are willing to plant seeds daily, water them consistently, and have the patience to wait for the harvest. Your notary business is no different. Embrace consistency. Cultivate grit. Watch your business transform. Are you ready to become the notary professional who stands out through persistent, strategic marketing? Your journey starts now – one consistent step at a time.

Ahhh, middle school dances! Let’s be honest, networking can feel a lot like walking into a middle school dance: awkward, a little sweaty, and full of people pretending to be cooler than they actually are. But here’s the thing: If you want to grow your notary business (or any business), you’ve got to step into the room, fears and all. Action is the antidote to fear, and networking is your golden ticket to connection, credibility, and clients. So how do you turn those networking jitters into genuine connections? I’ve got you covered with five practical, funny, and downright actionable tips that’ll have you mingling like a pro in no time. And if you’re a notary, stick with me—I know your fears, and we’re going to tackle them head-on. Tip #1: Show Up (Even If You’re Nervous) The first rule of networking is simple: You’ve got to show up. I know, I know. The idea of walking into a room full of strangers can feel like walking into a lion’s den. What if no one talks to you? What if you say something weird? What if you forget your own name? (It happens!) Here’s the truth: None of those fears matter if you’re not in the room. By showing up, you’re already ahead of the dozens of people who stayed home binge-watching Netflix and convincing themselves they’ll "network next week." For notaries, this is especially crucial. Your business thrives on relationships. Attorneys, real estate agents, and business owners aren’t going to magically know you exist unless you put yourself in their orbit. So take a deep breath, put on your best “I’ve-got-this” outfit, and walk through that door. Nervousness is temporary, but missed opportunities? Those stick around. Tip #2: Focus on Them, Not You Here’s a secret: Networking isn’t about you. It’s about *them*. When you’re nervous, it’s easy to get stuck in your own head, worrying about what you’ll say or how you’ll come across. But the best way to ease your fears is to shift your focus outward. Be curious. Ask questions. Show genuine interest in the people you’re talking to. Notaries, this is where you shine. Your job requires you to be trustworthy, approachable, and detail-oriented—all traits that make you a fantastic listener. So instead of stressing about pitching your services, focus on building relationships. Ask about their business. Find out what challenges they’re facing. Listen for ways you can help. Not only does this take the pressure off you, but it also makes you memorable. People love talking about themselves, and they’ll walk away from the conversation thinking you’re the most charming person in the room… even if you barely said a word. Tip #3: Practice Your Elevator Pitch (But Keep It Casual) Let’s talk about the dreaded elevator pitch. You know, that 30-second spiel where you’re supposed to summarize who you are, what you do, and why you’re awesome… all without sounding like a robot. If the thought of delivering an elevator pitch makes you want to fake a coughing fit and leave the room, you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: Your pitch doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be *you*. For notaries, this might sound like: - “Hi, I’m [Your Name], a mobile notary specializing in real estate closings and trust signings. I help busy professionals save time by bringing my services to them.” Keep it simple, conversational, and flexible. You don’t have to deliver the same script every time. Tailor it to the situation and the person you’re talking to. And if you mess up? Laugh it off. People appreciate authenticity far more than perfection (read that again)! Embrace the Awkward! Tip #4: Embrace the Awkward Moments Let’s get one thing straight: Awkward moments are inevitable. You’ll forget someone’s name, accidentally interrupt a conversation, or stand alone by the cheese platter for a little too long. It’s all part of the networking experience. But here’s the thing: Awkward moments don’t define you. How you handle them does. Instead of letting a misstep derail your confidence, roll with it. Crack a joke, smile, and move on. Most people won’t even notice, and those who do will appreciate your ability to laugh at yourself. Notaries, this is especially important for you. Maybe you’re worried about saying the wrong thing to a potential referral partner or stumbling over your words. But guess what? Attorneys and real estate agents are human, too. They’ve been there. They’re not expecting perfection; they’re looking for connection. So embrace the awkwardness and keep going. Tip #5 Follow Up Like a Pro Networking doesn’t end when the event does. The magic happens in the follow-up. Think about it: You meet someone great, exchange business cards, and have a fantastic conversation. Then… nothing. If you don’t follow up, that connection fades faster than your New Year’s resolution to eat less chocolate. For notaries, following up is your chance to solidify relationships and stay top of mind. Send a quick email the next day: - “Hi [Name], it was great meeting you at [Event]! I really enjoyed our conversation about [topic]. Let me know if you ever need a reliable notary or if there’s a way I can support your business.” Keep it short, friendly, and specific. And don’t stop there! Stay in touch with periodic check-ins (what I call a "Shout Out" in the 5 Point Marketing System), whether it’s sharing an article they might find useful or just saying hello. Consistency is key. Action Is the Only Way Past Fear Let’s wrap this up with a little tough love: The only way to conquer your fear of networking is to *do it*. No amount of reading, prepping, or pep-talking will replace the experience of getting out there and taking action. Yes, it’ll feel scary at first. Your palms might sweat, your voice might shake, and you might fumble a few conversations. But every time you push past the fear and take action, it gets easier. And before you know it, you’ll be walking into events with confidence, making connections left and right. Notaries, your business depends on relationships. Attorneys, real estate agents, and clients aren’t going to find you if you’re hiding behind your desk. Networking is your opportunity to show the world who you are and what you bring to the table. So don’t let fear hold you back. Take that first step, and keep going. Aaaaaand, Action! Your Challenge: Take Action This Week Now that you’ve got the tips, it’s time to put them into action. Here’s your challenge: Find one networking event this week, show up, and follow up with at least one person you meet. Just one event, one conversation, and one follow-up. You can do this. Remember, the path to success is paved with action. Take that first step, embrace the awkwardness, and trust that every connection you make brings you closer to your goals. Happy networking!

Networking doesn't have to be boring! February 3-7, 2025: Mark Your Calendars Ladies and gentlemen, National Networking Week is right around the corner! That’s right—an entire week dedicated to shaking hands, swapping business cards, and answering the age-old question, "So, what do you do?" If you’re a notary or a business owner (or anyone with a pulse and a LinkedIn profile), this is your golden opportunity to step out from behind the desk and into a room full of potential collaborators, clients, and cheerleaders. Sure, networking can seem a bit intimidating at first. Maybe the idea of mingling with strangers makes you want to retreat to the safety of your favorite pen stash (notaries, you know what I’m talking about). But trust me—the benefits of networking far outweigh the initial awkwardness. So grab your nametag, your smile, and maybe even a mint, and let’s talk about why this week could change the trajectory of your business. First, let’s talk about why networking is the secret sauce for growing your business. It’s simple: people do business with people they know, like, and trust. Showing up at events and connecting with others creates opportunities to: Meet referral partners: Think real estate agents, estate attorneys, or small business owners who can funnel work your way. Learn new strategies: Every conversation is a potential goldmine of tips, tricks, and lessons learned. Position yourself as an expert: Talking about your services in a clear and confident way reinforces your credibility. Remember, networking is like planting seeds. You won’t always see instant results, but with time and effort, your efforts will bloom into relationships that pay dividends. Want more clients? More opportunities? More visibility? Networking is the answer. Here’s the thing about networking: it’s not just good for your business—it’s good for you . Attending events, practicing your pitch, and having conversations with strangers might sound terrifying at first, but every time you step out of your comfort zone, you’re building confidence. Think of it like a muscle. The more you exercise it, the stronger it gets. Soon enough, you’ll walk into a room and OWN it—smiling, introducing yourself, and sharing your value without breaking a sweat. And that confidence? It’ll spill over into other areas of your life. You’ll find yourself: Speaking up in meetings (or on Zoom calls… sigh, the virtual life). Negotiating better deals with clients. Saying "yes" to opportunities that scare you a little but excite you a lot. So if you’re feeling stuck in your business or your personal growth, National Networking Week is your chance to push past the fear and start flexing those confidence muscles. Who knows? You might even start to enjoy it. Networking is fun and a great way to grow your referral list! Your Call to Action: Find Two Events and Show Up So, what’s next? It’s time to put this pep talk into action. Here’s what I want you to do: Find two networking events the week of February 2nd. They could be local meetups, industry mixers, or even virtual events. If you’re not sure where to start, check out your local Chamber of Commerce or professional groups. Commit to going. Block off the time on your calendar, lay out your outfit, and practice your elevator pitch. Show up and shine. Remember, networking isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being authentic, friendly, and open to connection. One Last Thing… National Networking Week only comes around once a year, but the habits you build this week can carry you through the rest of 2025 and beyond. Don’t let fear, excuses, or busyness hold you back. Get out there, meet people, and start building the relationships that will help you grow—both personally and professionally. So, what are you waiting for? Go find those two events, and don’t forget to let me know how it goes. You’ve got this!

Jen Neitzel's PopIns I remember so clearly starting out as a new business owner and spending hours upon hours trying to think of creative ways to win the business of local real estate professionals.  And you name it, I tried every kind of PopIn out there!  I made homemade pumpkin muffins (that I didn’t cook all the way through) I gave away Starbucks gift cards (but not for long, that angle is expensive) I gave away a free loan closing I brought donuts and sausage rolls (a Texas favorite) to my clients and prospects I delivered holiday ornaments for their seasonal office tree I sponsored events by providing a food tray I hosted “lunch an learns” at local real estate offices I visited open houses You name it, I did it. It was exhausting thinking of new ways to be creative, but it was a treasure trove of data on what marketing strategies work and which ones don’t (plus a few lessons about myself along the way). Now, since July is Marketing4Notaries' 5th birthday month (and I love to celebrate as long as possible, LOL), I’m doing something special for notaries who aren’t yet M4N members. We’re now offering solutions for every notary entrepreneur! He re’s the best part: if you’re hesitant about joining a subscription community, you can now purchase the 6-month calendar bundle individually!  I know subscriptions can feel overwhelming—I've heard that from the notary community and experienced it myself with my own subscriptions. So, I wanted to give you the flexibility to buy what you need without committing to a monthly plan. If you’re already a paid Marketing4Notaries member (including all Notary Business Builders ), you’ve got access to these calendars as part of your monthly subscription. Just pull them up and start planning your PopIn visits, blogs, social media posts and gratitude gifts for this month, next month, and the one after that! Marketing4Notaries.com recommends at least 3 marketing periods each month. But if you’re not a member yet (why aren’t you?? ), and you love the idea of having 6 months of marketing ideas ready to go, created by someone who’s tried it all and knows what works! No subscription necessary. And if this news excites you, just wait until you see what we’ve got launching next week! It’s a biggie, and you’re going to want it. You definitely need it! P.S. Please feel free to pass this message along to your notary friends, share on social media or LinkedIn!  Sharing is caring!

You may or not be aware, but August is National Friendship Month and yesterday I celebrated by asking my Notary Business Builder friends to invite their notary bestie to my monthly Building Authentic Relationships (BAR) call.  We had a great group on the call and spent time saying how we honestly feel about our meaningful connections. There was a lot of love on the call and if I’m being honest, there were a few moments that left me a bit choked up.  As humans, we don’t always remember the power of gratitude toward our friends and family.  As entrepreneurs, we understand that gratitude is extremely important in business, but it’s also equally as important to let our friends know how much we love, respect and appreciate them!  Today’s call had loads of gratitude and appreciation flowing and I wanted to share with you some of the practical items we discussed for ways to help support your notary friendships. First things first though…low level thinking involves the belief that other notaries are your competition. That’s a bunch of b.s.!! Once you start operating on a higher plane, you realize that other notaries are not only a source for referrals when you’re not able to service your clients, but also a source for friendship. As Matt Miller, the President of the California League of Independent Notaries said on today’s call, “when I let go of thinking other notaries in my area were my competition and opened up to the idea of collaboration, my stress level went way down.  I wasn’t constantly worried and I was able to put more energy toward my business.”  Let me share this 5 star review I received on my Google Business Profile on Feb 3, 2023 “I desperately needed same day service, and she had no appointments left. But she went above and beyond to help me find a qualified notary who could! So grateful for this professionalism” 😊 Linda I got a review from a customer I didn’t serve because I referred her to someone who could help when I wasn’t available.  Consider how impactful that is for a moment…We always talk about making things easy for people and one of the very best things we can do for our clients who we can’t help is to send them to someone who can help them!  What are some other ways you can help your notary besties?  Here are just a few tips to help you forge relationships with notaries in your area: Remember we’re not just notaries, we are notary entrepreneurs with all of the stress that comes along with owning your own business.  Don’t assume just because you feel someone is “ahead” of you or “more experienced” than you that they don’t need someone they trust to share their feelings.  We all need someone who understands the pains of entrepreneurship and allows us to vent, cry, laugh or just listen when it’s necessary. Show up!  Help them stuff their PopIn bags, plot out their marketing route, find networking events (or introduce them to the events you attend), swap ideas for follow up emails or blog content, attend the community fair where they’re hosting a table, offer a character review on Google Business Profile, share info about the latest training you received, engage with their content on social media or their blog posts, subscribe to their YouTube channel and share any valuable posts with your audience Share your strengths!  Are you really good at direct marketing?  Do you have excellent writing skills?  Maybe you’re a wiz at bookkeeping?  Or perhaps you are a Canva pro creating flyers or business cards. We all have talents and strengths we can share with each other!  I’m a big believer in karma/the golden rule/reciprocity in the universe or whatever you want to call it and I know from my own experiences that if I lend my talents to friends, they will in turn do the same for me when I need their help!   Offer honest feedback.  This one can be tough because it can be difficult to tell someone your truthful opinion. We feel we’re making that person feel rejected or that we want to be encouraging and telling the truth would be too hurtful.  Stop!  We’re adults. We’re business owners and because we work in a solo capacity we need people we can trust to tell us the truth.  Be fair, be kind, but be honest when they ask your opinion.  You’re not helping anyone if you never give them your truthful opinion.  Show your gratitude!  Tell your friends you love and appreciate them.  Show your gratitude in words (written or verbal).  Treat them to lunch or a special outing.  Send a card in the mail just to say, “I’m thinking of you.” Take the time to appreciate the people or persons who love and support you. The good you put out into the world in the form of appreciation will come back to you! I would love to hear how you support your notary bestie! Comment below and be sure to share this blog post with your notary groups! Let's spread some love around for National Friendship Month!