We recently connected with Jamila S Armstrong and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Jamila S thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?

I started working with a Real Estate Company November 2015. The following year I took on the Office Manager position. I needed to certify as a notary in order to notarize court documents for the property manager. April 2018, I decided to become a notary. I applied with The Secretary of State which didn’t take long to become a Notary for the State of South Carolina. A year of just being a general notary, I just did in office and officiated my first wedding January 2019.

I stumbled across a young lady on social media, who as a mobile notary and loan signing agent. I started my research by googling mobile loan signing agent, i was directed to the National Notary Association. I was a certified notary (excited yes), in order to be a loan signing agent I would have to take their class, pass a test and also a background check. Once, I finished the class and passed the test. I became a loan signing agent, but I was scared, I didn’t know what to do. I signed up for a few signing agencies, I got a text message for an assignment I let fear over take me. I took to long to respond and when I did, the assignment was already assigned. I prayed and asked God to take all my fears away, I will never learn if I remain fearful. I was a few weeks before the next text message. When the text came through, I accepted the assignment, yes excited and nervous. The assignment was 4 miles from my job (winner lol). The signing went perfectly, I was like ok I think I may like this.

The only problem is more business, I did a bit more research. I needed a business name, I needed a webpage and also a google page. I’m not that good with this, so how will I go about setting up a webpage, google page and the design of a logo for my business. I did my research, and everything started to fall into place. Once everything was set up, especially my google page. The phone calls started coming in, customer’s started coming into the office. Wow I didn’t know, becoming a notary there is so much they are capable of doing with the proper educational classes and training. Always market yourself, business cards, go to local businesses, market yourself on social media. Put yourself out there, someone will reach out, someone will use you by word of mouth. Market yourself, business will not just come to you, YOU HAVE to put in the work. As my parents would always say, nothing is given to you, go out and get it, earn it.

The first 3 years was hard because I had to use my money to fund my business. With a new business, no one is going to give you a loan, I didn’t know how to go about getting grants. Now the research is on about how to get a small business grant. This will help with supplies, rental space etc. Now I need a small SUV for my business, my car is not suitable because it’s a 2 seater and it’s my personal car. With a small business vehicle, I will be able to set up a wireless printer and scanner in the back of the vehicle.

My business is up and running but I want it now to where I have employees and company cars . But not to rush it, it will happen within the next 3 years. I am blessed to be where I am today with my business, never second guess yourself and never let fear keep you from achieving your goals.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

When you have a family full of entrepreneurs its just in your blood. Both my grandfathers were business owners, my father is a business owner. I have learned from them, the ups and downs, and the discipline it takes to stick with it. In a business, it will not always run perfectly, but you have to always stick with it to be successful. Always treat people as I want to be treated. Always greet with a smile, even when answering the phone.

Along side doing notary, I’m also a MaryKay consultant of 12 years, mobile drug tester 1 year. I will always make you the number 1 priority when I am servicing you as a customer. I am not out here just to make it money, I am here because I love what I do. Being able to help others, give words of encouragement, answer any questions one may have about starting a business. I am not an attorney so I can’t give any legal advice, but positive words and being encouraging will get you through. Success doesn’t happen over night, working hard and being consistent brings much success and wealth.

I am proud of the accomplishments that I have gained thus far with my business. You can never start from the top of the pole, starting from the bottom, Being consistent, working hard long hours, owning up to your mistakes will carry you a long way.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

For me having a google page has helped me grow my clientele, as well as referrals and word of mouth. First thing people look at are your reviews, always treat people with respect and kindness. Even when they walk into your establishment or you enter their home and they are not the friendliest. Referrals come when you carry yourself as a person with character, and you treat people like you want to be treated. First impression you give someone is a good impression.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I think what helped me build my reputation within my market, I respect peoples time, I don’t over book where I am rushed. I always greet with a smile and my energy is always positive. I give words of encouragement not legal advice. I go above and beyond to make sure my work is completed in a timely manner.

Contact Info:

• Website: classynotesmobilenotary.com
• Instagram: Classy Notes Mobile Notary Services LLC
• Facebook: Classy Notes Mobile Notary Services LLC
• Other: National Notary Association

Image Credits
Dream Infinity Photography