By Kelle Clarke on November 13, 2014
Updated 11-14-22. Notaries starting or expanding a new business often don't have a lot of money to spend on marketing. Here are easy, low-cost ways to advertise from successful Notaries that can help you.
No budget = no problem
Marketing funds may be nonexistent when you're just starting out. However, technology has managed to even the playing field when it comes to creating effective, do-it-yourself marketing strategies.
Website Builders: Free online website builders like WordPress make it easy to create an internet presence for your business, says South Carolina Notary Sonita Leak, who also uses online marketing for her Notary business.
Online Classified Ads: Colorado Notary David Harper was able to grow his company using Craigslist, and recommends renewing your Notary ad every 48 hours to draw in new business.
Notary Directories: If you are an NNA Certified Notary Signing Agent, you automatically receive a free directory listing on SigningAgent.com to advertise your Sigining Agent business.
Social Media: Create a Facebook business page separate from your personal one, and use platforms such as Twitter and LinkedIn to promote your business.
Old-Fashioned Networking: Joining professional associations and participating in local events through your church or chamber of commerce are great ways to network with other Notaries and connect with potential customers.
Testimonials and Word-of-Mouth: Solicit feedback reviews from your clients and ask them to share their positive experiences working with you. Hand out extra business cards for them to pass on to friends and colleagues.
Working on a shoestring budget
A limited marketing budget can yield maximum results if you are strategic in how and where you spend your money.
Business Cards: Sites like VistaPrint make it simple to design and print affordable, professional-looking business cards. Take it a step further by creating uniquely shaped cards, like Virginia Notary John Cole, who uses a circular card in the shape of a Notary seal.
Promotional Items: A pen, magnet, calendar or other give-away tchotchke can be effective if: (a) your brand and contact information is prominently displayed; and (b) it's an item that people will actually use — preferably again and again.
A bulkier marketing budget
Having more funds to invest in marketing can allow for even more creativity.
Car Decal: California Notary Laura Biewer scores "drive-by" business with her car decal emblazoned with her company name, At Your Service Mobile Notary. Google auto decal or vehicle graphics companies in your area for pricing.
Professional Website: If you lack the skills, time or desire to create your own, hiring a professional website designer can ensure your site functions exactly how you want it to. Make sure it allows for easy updating, so you can keep your site content fresh and appealing.
Designer Logo: Having a professional create a unique logo for your company can lend more credibility to your Notary business brand — and a particularly creative or attractive design may help attract new business.