• The Truth About Certifications (and Why Haters Gonna Hate)
    Apr 10 2025

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    The mobile notary and loan signing industry is filled with opinions, misinformation, and yes, a whole lot of noise. Some say you need certification to succeed. Others say you’re being scammed if you even consider paying for education. So what’s the truth?

    I’m here to tell you straight: Certifications are 100% voluntary—but for the right notary, they can be a total game-changer.

    In this episode, I pull back the curtain on what certifications actually do (and what they don’t), why haters love to hate, and how to navigate the noise with integrity, strategy, and confidence. You’ll hear:

    • Why certification is NOT required—but often helpful
    • What continuing education actually does for your business (think: confidence, credibility, and conversations)
    • How to spot toxic energy and hypocrisy in the industry
    • The crabs-in-a-bucket mindset and why it’s holding good notaries back
    • How to stop collecting certifications and start putting them to work
    • Why implementation is the missing link in most notaries' growth

    We’ve got notaries from all walks of life joining this industry—white-collar professionals, single parents, career switchers, retirees, and people starting over. So when someone says “You don’t need that,” they’re often speaking from their place of privilege and experience—not yours.

    Education is how we shine the light back on the path we’ve walked so others can find their way, too.

    Mentioned in This Episode:

    💼 High Performance Notary (HPN)
    Join our results-driven notary entrepreneur community and build the business—and habits—that get you clients.
    Try it FREE for 7 days → https://www.notarycoach.com/hpn

    📘 Certified Notary Trust Delivery Agent
    Want to work directly with estate planning attorneys and help families with one of life’s most important documents?
    Become a Certified Notary Trust Delivery Agent

    🌎 Certified Apostille Agent
    Want to help people navigate international document authentication? This is a high-value, low-competition niche.
    Get certified as an Apostille Agent

    🏡 Reverse Mortgage Signing Professional
    Love working with seniors? Learn how to guide them through reverse mortgage transactions with confidence and compassion.
    Become a Certified Reverse Mortgage Signing Professional

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    • Why certifications are tools—not trophies
    • How to think critically about who you’re following online
    • What “crab in a bucket” energy looks like (and how to escape it)
    • The difference between having knowledge and using knowledge
    • Why investing in yourself scares some people—and why you should do it anyway
    • How certification sparked new revenue and opportunities in my business
    • What makes a program legit (and how to tell when it’s not)
    • How to build a notary business that reflects your values, skills, and goals

    And if you’ve got a certification (or five) sitting on your desk that you haven’t put into action yet… consider this your nudge to DO something with it.

    Want my personal blueprint for consistency, growth, and getting in front of more clients?

    It’s called the Daily Do’s, and I teach them inside High Performance Notary. You’ll build the habits, systems, and mindset that create lasting success in this business—and I’ll guide you every step of the way.


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    19 mins
  • Marketing Strategies for Introverted Notaries
    Apr 3 2025

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    Are you a notary who cringes at the idea of networking mixers, small talk, or cold outreach? Same.

    I’m Bill Soroka, and in this episode of the Sign & Thrive Podcast, I peel back the curtain on how I built a multiple six-figure notary business—as a hardcore introvert. I’m not the “hide under the table” kind of introvert (okay, sometimes I am), but I am someone who needs a nap and some Golden Girls after too much peopling.

    If the idea of marketing yourself to estate planning attorneys makes you want to melt into your couch cushions, this episode is for you. And good news: your introversion isn’t a problem—it’s your unfair advantage.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    • Why introverts make exceptional notary entrepreneurs—and how to use your quiet strengths to win;
    • How Warren Buffett and Bill Gates used their introversion to quietly dominate their industries;
    • The three V’s that define your dream attorney clients: Vision, Value, and Volume;
    • The exact email strategy I used to start 98 real conversations with attorneys (that turned into 16 paying clients);
    • Why you need a referral list before you ask for a referral—and how to build one using my free template;
    • Where to find estate planning attorneys (hint: LinkedIn, bar association directories, Google, and more);
    • My proven follow-up sequence that converts silence into opportunity;
    • What to say in that first meeting—without pitching, posturing, or panic attacks;
    • And how to clearly and confidently explain your services using John Ruhlin’s “Big 4” Clarity Statement.

    This episode is part pep talk, part how-to guide, and 100% permission for you to market your notary business without pretending to be an extrovert.

    You don’t have to be loud to build a thriving notary business—you just have to be thoughtful, consistent, and willing to send that first message.

    If you’ve ever told yourself, “I’m too introverted to market my business,” I challenge you to listen to this episode all the way through. Then, send one email. That’s all.

    You’ll be amazed what happens when you show up—not as someone else—but as you.

    Episode Resources:

    • 📝 Referral List Template
      Download the exact referral list template I recommend you build before reaching out to estate planning attorneys:
      https://www.notarycoach.com/blog/the-3-lists-that-will-transform-your-notary-business-and-how-to-build-them
    • 📖 Blog Article: The Introverted Notary’s Guide to Marketing to Estate Planning Professionals
      Missed the original article this episode is based on? You can read the full blog here (Releases 4/4/25):
      https://www.notarycoach.com/blog/the-introverted-notary-s-guide-for-marketing-to-estate-planning-professionals
    • 💡 Learn More About High Performance Notary
      Join a community of thoughtful, motivated notary entrepreneurs building profitable businesses on their own terms:
      https://www.notarycoach.com/hpn

    Key words and phrases: introverted notary marketing strategies, mobile notary marketing plan, how to get estate planning attorney clients, notary referral list template, email marketing for notaries, notary cold outreach examples, how to get more notary clients, how to be a successful notary without networking, notary prospecting email script, trust delivery agent training, local notary marketing tips, LinkedIn for notaries, how to find attorney clients as a notary, introvert business success story

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    23 mins
  • Why No One’s Finding Your Notary Profile (And How to Fix It Fast)
    Mar 27 2025

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    Are you showing up in local search, or are you invisible online? In this episode of The Sign & Thrive Podcast for Notaries, Bill Soroka breaks down the critical mistakes most notaries make on directory profiles, and how to fix them using today’s SEO and AI-driven search best practices. Whether you’re listed on Google, Yelp, or a notary-specific directory like Gotary.com, these tips will help you attract more clients and make your profile work for you 24/7.

    What You'll Learn in This Episode:

    • Why most notary directory profiles are failing to show up in search
    • How AI and local SEO are changing the game for mobile notaries
    • Five simple, powerful tweaks to boost your visibility (without hiring a copywriter)
    • Why your headshot and headline matter more than you think
    • How to write an “About” section that speaks to both clients and search engines
    • The truth about keyword stuffing and how to use natural language instead
    • How reviews, certifications, and up-to-date contact info build trust fast
    • What to do today to make your listings stand out from the sea of sameness

    Who This Episode Is For:

    • Mobile notaries and loan signing agents who rely on local SEO to attract clients
    • Apostille agents, trust delivery notaries, and general notary work pros
    • Notaries listed on Gotary.com, Google Business Profile, Yelp, or other directories
    • Any notary entrepreneur who wants to future-proof their visibility in an AI-first world

    Your Profile Might Be Costing You Business

    Most clients won’t search for you by name. They’ll type in things like:

    • “Mobile notary near me”
    • “Apostille service in [City]”
    • “Notary for trust documents in [State]”

    If your listing doesn’t clearly communicate what you do, where you do it, and who you help, you’re missing out on leads that should’ve been yours.

    This episode helps you fix that, fast.

    Why Gotary.com Is Different

    Bill also shares how Gotary.com, the directory he founded, is specifically designed to feature the most reliable, professionally trained notaries—and how he actively promotes it to estate planning attorneys, law firms, and title companies nationwide.

    Unlike other passive directories, Gotary.com is proactively marketed to decision-makers—the actual people hiring notaries for trust deliveries, apostilles, real estate closings, and more.

    You’ll also learn about:

    • The Certified Notary Trust Delivery Agent (CNTDA) credential and how it positions you as a premium notary for estate planning pros
    • The benefits of Gold and Platinum Gotary listings (like client reviews, custom links, priority placement, and outreach inclusion)
    • Why it’s not too early to get listed—especially with a free Basic profile available for notaries just getting started
    • How to take advantage of limited-time upgrade deals for more visibility, trust, and leads

    Ready to Get Found by the Right People?

    Claim your free listing and start optimizing your online presence today:
    https://www.gotary.com/join

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    17 mins
  • Becoming the Go-To Resource: The Art of Smart Referrals
    Mar 20 2025

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    Referrals are the secret weapon of business growth, but not in the way most people think. In this episode of The Sign & Thrive Podcast for Notaries, host Bill Soroka reveals the power of smart referrals—not just getting them, but giving them.

    When you become the person who connects people, solves problems, and makes life easier for others, you don’t just get referrals—you build a reputation that brings opportunities you never saw coming.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    ✔️ Why giving referrals is the fastest way to get them
    ✔️ How to position yourself as a trusted resource in any network
    ✔️ The Trust Triangle—why strategic introductions lead to more business
    ✔️ The 3-Tier Estate Planning Referral System that sets you apart
    ✔️ How to avoid common networking mistakes that sabotage relationships

    Why This Matters for Notaries

    Loan signings aren’t falling from the sky like they used to, but billions of documents still need notarization every year. By leveraging referrals, you can build a sustainable business that thrives no matter what’s happening in the market.

    Bill shares real-life stories of how simple introductions have led to high-value clients, unexpected income streams, and long-term partnerships. Whether you're an introvert or a natural networker, these insights will help you become the notary everyone remembers.

    The 3-Tier Estate Planning Referral System

    Want to break into the lucrative world of estate planning notarizations? This framework helps you create easy referral pathways for clients and professionals:

    🟢 Tier 1: Estate Planning Attorneys – Find and build relationships with multiple attorneys to match clients with the right fit.

    🟢 Tier 2: Legal Document Preparers – Offer a budget-friendly alternative for clients who don’t need an attorney.

    🟢 Tier 3: DIY Estate Planning Platforms – Provide resources for self-directed clients while earning passive referral income.

    Common Networking Mistakes to Avoid:

    🚫 The Transactional Tactician – Only reaching out when you need something
    🚫 The Referral Hoarder – Afraid to share contacts, thinking it reduces your own business
    🚫 The Lazy Connector – Saying, "Just Google them" instead of making a warm introduction

    Your Homework: Start Giving Referrals Today

    1️⃣ Pay attention to conversations – Listen for phrases like “I need a good [attorney, CPA, real estate agent]”
    2️⃣ Make thoughtful introductions – A quick email or text can set the foundation for lasting business relationships
    3️⃣ Give first, receive later – Build your social capital, and the referrals will come back like a boomerang

    Resources & Next Steps

    Download Bill’s Free Referral List Template – Stay organized and make better referrals effortlessly

    Learn More About Certified Notary Trust Delivery Agents – The most profitable niche for mobile notaries

    Join High Performance Notary – Get access to Bill’s personal referral network inside the Prosperity Hub

    Gotary.com

    Article: How to Make Memorable Introductions in Your Network

    Art

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    32 mins
  • Why AI Isn't Recommending Your Notary Business (And What to Do About It!)
    Mar 13 2025

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    If someone in your city asks ChatGPT for a notary recommendation, would your name come up? If not, you could be losing business without even knowing it.

    AI-driven search is changing the way people find local services, including mobile notaries, loan signing agents, and apostille professionals. While most businesses are still focused on Google SEO, the real game-changer is understanding how AI-powered search engines like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity decide which businesses to recommend.

    AI search doesn’t work like Google. Instead of relying solely on keywords and business listings, it scans the internet for businesses that have:
    Consistent business information across multiple platforms
    Strong, recent reviews on multiple sites, not just Google Business Profile
    Mentions in blogs, articles, and “best of” lists
    A conversational, well-structured website optimized for AI search queries

    🚀 6 Ways to Get AI to Recommend Your Notary Business:

    📌 1. Optimize for Conversational AI Search
    AI responds to full, natural language queries—not just keywords. Instead of stuffing your website with “mobile notary [city],” optimize for real questions.

    ✔ Write FAQ-style content on your website
    ✔ Create blog posts that answer common notary questions
    ✔ Structure your site with clear headings and easy-to-read sections

    📌 2. Keep Your Google Business Profile Updated
    Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is still critical—but AI looks beyond just Google.

    Ensure your business name, address, and phone (NAP) are 100% consistent across Google, Yelp, and business directories
    ✔ Use the Q&A feature in GBP to add relevant, AI-friendly questions and answers
    ✔ Regularly post updates and service highlights

    📌 3. Get Reviews on Multiple Platforms
    AI trusts businesses that have strong, recent reviews across multiple sources.

    ✔ Get reviews on Google, Yelp, Facebook, Nextdoor, and Thumbtack
    ✔ Encourage clients to leave detailed, natural-sounding reviews (not just “Great service!” but full sentences about their experience)
    ✔ Respond to every review—AI values businesses that engage with their customers

    📌 4. Get Featured on “Best Notary” Lists
    AI loves “best of” lists. If someone searches “best mobile notary in [city],” AI will likely recommend whoever appears on these lists.

    ✔ Apply to be listed on local business ranking sites
    ✔ If no list exists—create your own blog post on your website!

    📌 5. Get Mentioned in Blogs & Online Articles
    AI pulls from news articles, blogs, and business directories to determine credibility. The more mentions you have online, the higher you’ll rank.

    ✔ Get featured in local blogs, news articles, or business spotlights
    ✔ Contribute guest posts to local business websites
    ✔ Engage in LinkedIn and Alignable discussions where professionals recommend notaries

    📌 6. Ask AI Why You’re Not Ranking & Fix It
    Here’s the ultimate AI SEO hack—just ask ChatGPT why your business isn’t ranking.

    🛠 Try this prompt:
    “If I were looking for a mobile notary in [city], which businesses would you recommend and why?”

    AI will tell you exactly who is ranking and what they’re doing right. Then use that information to optimize your business and outrank competitors.

    AI search isn’t coming—it’s already here. The notaries who start optimizing for AI-driven local search today will be the ones dominating the market in the next 3-5 years.

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    17 mins
  • The Prospecting Engine: Daily Outreach That Transforms Your Business
    Mar 6 2025

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    Struggling to get more notary clients? Wondering why your phone isn’t ringing, even though you’ve got the website, the business cards, and the professional setup?

    The missing piece is consistent prospect outreach—and in this episode, I’m breaking down the exact strategies that took my notary business from $1,000 a month to $20,000+ a month in just 90 days.

    Here’s the truth: Most notary entrepreneurs don’t do enough outreach. Whether it’s fear of rejection, not knowing what to say, or just plain avoidance, many notaries leave money on the table by not following up with warm leads or by never reaching out to cold prospects at all.

    But when you commit to a simple, repeatable outreach system, your entire business changes.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:


    ✅ The biggest mistake notaries make with outreach—and how to fix it


    ✅ The two types of outreach you need to master: Warm and Cold (and how to do both without feeling awkward or pushy)


    ✅ How I turned 26 failed businesses into a thriving notary business—by making outreach a daily habit


    ✅ The Daily Do’s—eight simple prospecting actions that keep clients coming to you


    ✅ The 2-in-5 Strategy for researching cold prospects in just five minutes before reaching out


    Warm outreach scripts that make it easy to follow up with past clients, referral partners, and even friends and family


    Cold outreach strategies that don’t feel “cold”—including personalized emails, LinkedIn messages, and in-person visits


    ✅ How to overcome fear and resistance to outreach so you can start getting real results

    Why Outreach is a Game-Changer for Notaries

    Too many notary entrepreneurs think marketing is just setting up a website and waiting for clients to find them. But that’s not how thriving businesses work. Outreach—done consistently and strategically—is the difference between struggling for clients and having a steady stream of work.

    I learned this lesson the hard way. After failing in 26 businesses, I was ready to throw in the towel again—until I finally got serious about prospecting. I committed to daily outreach, built a habit around it, and completely transformed my business. Now, I’m sharing everything I learned so you don’t have to waste time making the same mistakes.

    Make Outreach a Habit—Not a Hail Mary

    The biggest mistake I see notaries make? Inconsistency.
    Sending one or two outreach messages and then giving up when there’s no instant result. Outreach isn’t a one-time thing—it’s a daily commitment. And when you stick with it for 90 days, you will not recognize your business.

    Take Action & Join the High Performance Notary Community

    If today’s episode gave you the wake-up call you needed, let’s take it even further. Inside High Performance Notary, we put these strategies into action together. I’ll walk you through my 9-Step High Performance Notary Action Plan, give you scripts and worksheets, and help you turn outreach into an effortless habit.

    🔗 Join the community here → NotaryCoach.com

    💡 Next Episode: I’ll break down my complete Daily Do’s framework, so you can build the prospecting engine that keeps your business thriving. Don’t miss it!

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    20 mins
  • 5 Ways Notaries Can Boost Their Online Visibility
    Feb 27 2025

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    In this jam-packed episode, your host Bill Soroka reveals the two key sources of customers for your notary business and explains how mastering them can transform your career.

    Bill starts by explaining that every successful notary business is powered by two “twin engines”: online visibility and your personal network. In today’s digital and convenience-driven world, prospects need not only to find you quickly but also to trust that you’re the expert they can count on. As a mobile notary, your role is vital in keeping commerce moving while protecting against mortgage fraud and identity theft. This episode dives deep into how to make your online presence work for you, ensuring that when someone searches for “notary near me” or similar phrases, you’re among the top choices.

    Episode Highlights:

    Google Business Profile (GBP):
    Bill reveals why GBP is the ultimate lead generation tool for mobile notaries. He debunks common myths – it’s completely free, you don’t need a website to get started, and you can keep your home address private. Learn how to set up, optimize, and maintain your profile so that every detail—from listing all your services to garnering positive reviews—helps you rank higher in search results. (Be sure to check the show notes for exclusive links to GBP Free & GBP Mastery resources!)

    LinkedIn Profile Optimization:
    A professionally crafted LinkedIn profile is essential for credibility and online discoverability. Bill shares his top tips on creating a standout headline that includes your commission state and specialty services, using engaging cover images, and optimizing the “About” section. He also emphasizes the importance of engaging with posts through thoughtful comments and contextual shares to build lasting relationships and boost your personal brand.

    Professional Directory Profiles:
    With numerous notary directories available, having an optimized presence on both free and paid platforms can greatly increase your visibility. Bill outlines key strategies—such as including a professional headshot, highlighting certifications, and adding a personable narrative—to ensure you stand out in a crowded market. He even names a few popular directories like SigningAgent.com and NotaryCafe.com.

    Social Media Strategy:
    Although social media may not directly generate sales, it plays a crucial role in keeping you top-of-mind. Bill advises focusing on one platform at a time—using your personal feed or a business page—to share valuable content that reflects your passion and expertise, rather than overwhelming your followers with constant ads. Consistency and authenticity in your posts will help prospects remember you when they need notary services.

    Website Optimization:
    Your website is more than a digital brochure—it’s a powerful tool designed to convert visitors into paying customers. Bill explains why it’s essential to invest time, money, and energy into creating a site that is optimized for search engines and user experience. Key elements include keyword-rich content, a clear call to action above the fold, integration of chatbots for instant communication, and the display of customer testimonials for social proof.

    Bonus Strategy – Google Ads:
    For those ready to take their online visibility to the next level, Bill introduces Google Ads. Although this tool requires a willingness to learn about bidding strategies, keyword targeting, and campaign management, it offers the potential to dominate local search results. With an optimized landing page and a modest daily budget, Google Ads can serve as a powerful pipeline for attracting high-intent clients.

    Check out these website and marketing solutions mentioned in the episode:

    Hey

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    32 mins
  • Build Lifetime Notary Clients and Boost Referrals Fast
    Feb 20 2025

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    Build Lifetime Notary Clients & Boost Referrals Fast with the S.M.I.L.E. Framework

    💡 What if your next $20 notary appointment could turn into $2,000+ in lifetime value?

    That’s not a gimmick—it’s a strategy. And in this episode of Sign & Thrive, I’m sharing exactly how you can make it happen.

    Most notaries operate with a transactional mindset: stamp the document, collect the fee, and move on—only to start the hustle again to find the next client. But what if you could turn every single appointment into a long-term client and referral powerhouse?

    That’s where my S.M.I.L.E. framework comes in. This system—part of my Top of Mind Method—is designed to help you:

    Create loyal, repeat customers who seek YOU out
    Build a network of referrals without awkward asking
    Leverage every appointment into a lasting relationship
    Break free from the cycle of always chasing new business

    What You'll Learn in This Episode:

    🔹 The two biggest misconceptions about client retention (and why they’re costing you money)
    🔹 How much it REALLY costs you to constantly find new customers (hint: 5X more than keeping an existing one!)
    🔹 The 5 powerful steps of S.M.I.L.E.:

    • S – Solve Their Problem
    • M – Masterfully Deliver Your Services
    • I – Implement an Ironclad Follow-Up System
    • L – Leverage Long-Term Connection Strategies
    • E – Expand Your Knowledge & Your Network

    🔹 Why leaving a business card behind is NOT enough to stay top of mind
    🔹 How to shift from “just a notary” to a trusted resource in your community
    🔹 The simple but powerful question you MUST ask every client to ensure repeat business

    Most notaries don’t take these extra steps. They’ll say it’s common sense—but it’s NOT common practice. That’s why those who apply these strategies stand out and earn exponentially more.

    Your Notary Business CAN Be Different

    Imagine this: Instead of constantly scrambling to find new customers, your phone rings with repeat clients who already trust you. You’re not just a notary—you’re a go-to professional with a thriving business built on referrals and relationships.

    💡 If they needed a notary once, they’ll need one again—or they’ll know someone who does.

    This episode is packed with actionable steps to help you stop grinding and start building a sustainable, profitable notary business that gives you financial freedom and flexibility.

    📲 Want Ongoing Support & High-Performance Strategies?
    Join me and hundreds of motivated notary entrepreneurs inside the High Performance Notary Collective

    Join HPN Here


    Show more Show less
    24 mins
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