Not everyone is suited to be a Notary entrepreneur. It is a role that demands more than just notarizing documents it requires a unique combination of skills, traits, and dedication. In addition, the responsibility of serving the public must remain at the forefront of every Notary’s business operation.
Below are eight challenges people face while trying to thrive in this field, along with the qualities that define a successful Notary entrepreneur. Are you ready to take on these Notary entrepreneur challenges?
Challenge 1. Business acumen is a must
Running a Notary business involves much more than stamping and signing documents. Entrepreneurs must excel in marketing, financial management, client relations, and strategic planning. These are complex skills that not everyone is prepared or willing to develop.
Qualities for Success:
Successful Notary entrepreneurs are resourceful problem-solvers who relish the challenge of wearing many hats. They approach their business with a growth mindset, seeking out tools and resources to improve their business acumen and overcome obstacles.
Challenge 2. Constant and consistent professionalism
Notary entrepreneurs often deal with sensitive legal documents and clients under stressful circumstances. Maintaining a professional demeanor, upholding confidentiality, and always providing a high standard of service can be demanding.
Qualities for Success:
Thriving Notary entrepreneurs are empathetic and patient, understanding that professionalism is the foundation of trust. They use these qualities to build lasting client relationships and establish a reputation for excellence.
Challenge 3. Self-motivation is key
Entrepreneurs must drive their own success. Without a boss or structured environment, it is easy to lose focus. Self-discipline and motivation are essential to building and sustaining a successful business.
Qualities for Success:
A great Notary entrepreneur possesses an intrinsic drive to succeed. They set clear goals, create action plans, and consistently hold themselves accountable. Passion for their work fuels their motivation, even on tough days.
Challenge 4. Adaptability to market trends
The Notary industry is rapidly evolving with technology like Remote Online Notarization (RON) and changing client expectations. Some struggle to keep pace with these shifts.
Qualities for Success:
Successful entrepreneurs see change as an opportunity rather than a threat. They invest in new technologies and continually enhance their skills, ensuring they remain competitive and relevant in a dynamic marketplace.
Challenge 5. Handling uncertainty and risk
Entrepreneurship is inherently risky, with fluctuating income, unpredictable client demand, and potential legal liabilities. Many people simply prefer the stability of traditional employment.
Qualities for Success:
Resilient Notary entrepreneurs thrive on challenge and uncertainty. They embrace calculated risks, use them as learning opportunities, and build financial cushions to weather lean times.
Challenge 6. Attention to detail is critical
Mistakes on notarized documents can have significant consequences for clients. It can also harm a Notary’s reputation and result in legal and financial consequences. Not everyone has the meticulousness this profession requires.
Qualities for Success:
Detail-oriented Notary entrepreneurs take pride in their precision and thoroughness. They establish systems to double-check their work, minimizing errors and ensuring client satisfaction.
Challenge 7. Commitment to continuous learning
Laws, regulations, and industry standards change regularly. A lack of commitment to ongoing education can hinder long-term success.
Qualities for Success:
Lifelong learners thrive as Notary entrepreneurs. They proactively seek out Notary training, attend workshops, and participate in industry discussions, keeping their knowledge and skills sharp.
Challenge 8. Must pass a background screening
A comprehensive background screening that includes criminal and international checks is a prerequisite for many Notary opportunities. Not everyone can meet this standard, which limits their ability to attain certain certifications and expand their businesses.
Qualities for Success:
Ethical and law-abiding Notary entrepreneurs view their background screening as a badge of credibility. They understand the importance of trust in their profession and strive to maintain their integrity in every aspect of their business.
The public servant role: A core responsibility
Notaries are public officials, charged with upholding the integrity of legal transactions. While running a business requires entrepreneurial skills, it is essential for Notary entrepreneurs to remember their public servant responsibilities. This means:
- Putting public trust first: Always prioritize ethical practices over profit, ensuring that every notarization adheres to state laws and standards.
- Balancing business and service: While marketing and client acquisition are important, the Notary’s role as a neutral and impartial witness must never be compromised for the sake of business growth.
- Educating clients: Many clients may not fully understand the notarization process. A good Notary entrepreneur takes time to educate and guide them while maintaining professionalism and impartiality.
Keeping these responsibilities in mind helps Notary entrepreneurs balance their business aspirations with their public service duties, ensuring their work is impactful, ethical, and meaningful.
The bottom line
While not everyone is suited to be a Notary entrepreneur, those who possess the right qualities — resourcefulness, professionalism, adaptability, resilience, and a commitment to continuous improvement — can thrive in this challenging yet rewarding field. Those who succeed in this role embrace the dual responsibilities of being an entrepreneur and a public servant, recognizing the privilege and duty inherent in their work.
For those willing to rise to the occasion, the Notary industry offers boundless opportunities for personal and professional growth. Are you ready to make your mark?
NNA Notary Ambassador® Daniel C. Lewis resides in Carmel, Indiana. In 2010, he was named an Honorary Secretary of State by the Indiana Secretary of State. That same year, he also received the Notary of the Year award from the National Notary Association. Daniel is an entrepreneur, writer, video editor, Keynote Speaker, host of "The Notary Podcast,” and the Executive Director of Lewis Notary & Training Services Inc.
NNA Notary Ambassador® Marcy Tiberio is an entrepreneur, educator, and advocate who is passionate about empowering others. She owns and operates several businesses: Professional Notary Services, Inc., a nationwide mobile notary signing service; The New York Notary Alliance, an association to educate, empower, and advocate for notaries; and Notary Life, LLC, an e-commerce store offering swag, digital tools, and promotional items tailored for entrepreneurs.