People often assume that being a notary – or loan signing agent – means I just show up, stamp a few papers, and head out to the next appointment. If only! While meeting with clients is one of my favorite parts of the job, it’s actually just the tip of the notary iceberg.
So, what do I do when I’m not in an appointment? I’m glad you asked…
1. 📞 Playing Phone (and Email and Text) Tag
Before I can even get to a signing table, there’s a flurry of behind-the-scenes communication happening. I spend a good chunk of my day answering calls, replying to texts, and following up on emails from clients, title companies, real estate agents, and sometimes confused cousins asking if I can notarize a birth certificate in another state. (Spoiler: I cannot.)
2. 📦 Prepping Docs Like a Pro
Once a new signing is confirmed, I move into printing-and-prepping mode. That means carefully reviewing the document package, printing the right number of copies, and organizing everything so the appointment runs smoothly. Yes, I even triple-check that the printer has ink and paper because printers love to run out at the worst possible time.
3. 🚗 Drop and Dash (to FedEx or UPS)
After a signing, the clock starts ticking. Time-sensitive documents may need to be scanned and sent to the Title Company immediately, then dropped off for overnight shipping – fast. I’ve been known to slide into FedEx or UPS like I’m winning gold at the Notary Olympics. (They don’t have those… yet.)
4. 🗂 Keeping My Ducks (and Records) in a Row
Recordkeeping and journaling are essential. Each client, customer, appointment, and notarization gets logged, and I keep track of all the important details. It’s not glamorous, but it’s necessary—and oddly satisfying if you’re into tidy logs and color-coded systems. (No? Just me?)
5. 🧾 Bookkeeping. Yes, I Have to Do That Too
Some days I’m the CEO, CFO, and unpaid intern all in one. That means managing invoices, tracking payments, and making sure everything is tidy for tax time. Numbers aren’t my love language, but my notary software and a delicious cup of chai make it a breeze.
6. 📲 Social Media, Blogging, and Website Updates
Part of staying visible in this business is showing up online. So when I’m not on the road, I’m probably writing blog posts like this one (hi!), posting tips or fun facts on social media, or updating my website and directory listings to make sure people can actually find me when they need a notary.
7. 🎯 Marketing & Outreach
Networking and marketing are ongoing efforts. I might be designing flyers, attending a local business mixer, sending follow-up emails, or figuring out how to explain what I do in 10 seconds or less without sounding like a spy.
8. ☕ The Occasional Breather
Between it all, I do try to grab a snack, drink some water, and remember what daylight looks like. Self-care is important -even if it’s just a short nap with my cats, a chapter or two of a good book, or baking something wholesome in my kitchen.
The Bottom Line?
Running a mobile notary and loan signing business is a whole operation -especially when it is a solo endeavor! There’s a lot more happening behind the scenes than people realize. So the next time you see me at a signing, know that I’ve already done a dozen things to make that one moment seamless for you.
If you ever wondered what notaries do in their “off time,” now you know: we’re busy making sure our on time is professional, prepared, and polished.
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