Updated 9-13-22. Many new Notaries worry that the industry is overcrowded and there are too many Notaries for them to get business. Learn why this is not the case from Sharelle Evans, who recently started a successful career as a Notary and discusses Notary issues on her own YouTube channel, LoveLee Notary.
Is the Notary market oversaturated?
Notaries often ask me on my social media channels, “Is the Notary industry too overcrowded for me to start a business?” The answer is NO! Although there has been an increase in the number of people becoming Notaries in recent years, the market is far from oversaturated. I will explain the reasons why below and provide you with 4 ways to help make sure your Notary business is consistently bringing in customers.
Network with local businesses that require Notary services
You may be surprised to find how many places need different kinds of Notary services in your area if you just go out and look. You can visit local banks, title companies, real estate companies/agents and hospitals and offer to provide Notary services for them, just to start. You don’t have to sit around and hope for someone to call you for a notarization. Be proactive and explore all potential income streams in the community. Don’t assume that other Notaries have snapped up all the potential work in your area, because often that’s not the case.
When you visit these places, you want to make a good first impression and ensure that they remember you when they need a Notary. For example, when you visit these places bring a gift of treats like cookies or other snacks. It’s a great way to start a conversation and helps make sure that they remember you! It’s also a good idea to hand out pens, business cards, lanyards and other marketing tools with your contact information on it to anyone you speak with.
Use the Support of Your Fellow Notaries
A common worry I hear is that there are too many Notaries in the industry and there isn’t enough work to go around. While there are many other Notaries out there, you shouldn’t view them solely as competition — they can also be a valuable support group for your new business. Many Notaries help each other out on social media by sharing tips, helpful information and even offering to cover assignments for each other if someone has a schedule conflict or can’t make it to an appointment because of an emergency.
Facebook, Instagram and other social media platforms have groups and hashtags to help you easily find other Notaries and get in touch with them. These Notary groups will allow you to share your experiences and stories, learn about new state rules and regulations and so much more.
Remote notarization has created new opportunities for Notaries in many states
If you’re in a state that allows remote online notarization (RON), this is a great way to find new customers in other states and in some cases, even other countries — and you can do it without leaving home! Becoming a remote Notary doesn’t require you to learn advanced tech skills, either. In addition to your Notary commission, you may need to register as an online Notary with your state, sign up with an approved RON technology platform or get an e-Seal or digital certificate, depending on your state’s laws.
Find New Opportunities Beyond Your Local Area
If you are having a hard time finding work in your immediate area, don’t be afraid to reach out to businesses and signing companies you work with. Ask them what they are looking for from Notaries. Be willing to travel to other surrounding areas to see if there are opportunities there. And don’t forget, situations may change and these companies may have Notary work for you in the future.
Even if a company doesn’t need your services right now, leave your contact information with them and keep your online Notary directory profile updated so people know you are able to take signings. If they need a notarization on short notice in the future, you may get a call when you don’t expect it.
If you’re concerned about the Notary industry being overcrowded or saturated, these are valid fears. However, there are plenty of ways for Notaries to find new opportunities, even if they have a lot of competition in their local area. Keep in mind that other Notaries can also be a source of advice and may even pass along assignments sometimes.
Sharelle Evans was formerly in corporate healthcare and decided to quit her job to pursue a career as a Notary and Signing Agent. She started her own YouTube channel for Notaries, LoveLee Notary, with more than 5,000 subscribers. You can also follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.