Are you right for the job?
Thinking of becoming a notary? Take a look at this list of skills and learn how to develop them.
Written Communication
Given that writing and reviewing documents is an important part of their work, notaries must be excellent communicators who have an eye for detail and can understand French and English. They must be able to clearly communicate what their clients’ wishes are especially when assisting with contracts, or the preparation of mandates or wills.You have what you need to succeed if:
- You enjoy preparing letters.
- You are able to spot typos and enjoy proofreading others people's work.
- You receive good marks in your French, English or literature classes.
To develop these skills, you can:
- Write articles for your school newspaper.
- Proofread and revise group work or your friend’s homework.
- Read books in English and French.
Analytical Skills
When people go to see a notary, they expect that that the notary will listen carefully to facts, consider the legal situation, apply the right laws, and give solid legal advice so they can decide what they want to do.You have what you need to succeed if:
- You often guess the ending to a suspense movie or crime novel.
- You find it easy to understand new material at school.
- You are curious and like to work on complex problems, such as Sudoku.
To develop these skills, you can:
- Read interesting books and tell your friends about them in your own words.
- Watch informative TV shows and documentaries on a variety of subjects, such as politics, technology or sciences.
- Play games that require logic and strategy, such as chess, checkers or Risk.
Neutrality
When more than one party comes to a notary looking for advice on the same issue, he must ensure that everyone at the table understands the law and is protected in case anything happens later on (without taking sides). This is important because clients rely on what their notary says when making important life decisions (such as buying a house, creating a will, making a marriage contract, etc.).You have what you need to succeed if:
- You are fair-minded during an argument between two people, even if your best friend is involved.
- You help people resolve conflicts without being controlled by your emotions.
- You can find solutions to issues involving your parents and your teachers.
To develop these skills, you can:
- Put yourself in the shoes of someone who does not share your opinions.
- Play the role of a mediator during a heated discussion between your friends and reconcile their points of view.
- Before giving your opinion on a topic that you don’t know much about, learn more about it so you can weigh the pros and cons.
Organization and Coordination
Notaries work with many files and clients at the same time. They must be well organized and project an image of being in control. It’s important that they don’t mix up documents and get things done effectively and efficiently, and on time.You have what you need to succeed if:
- You use an agenda and a calendar.
- Your school notes are clear and well organized.
- You like when things are put in the right place.
To develop these skills, you can:
- Learn to establish and follow schedules for your studies and homework.
- Help coordinate a school play, school club or upcoming social event. Be responsible for making lists, establishing priorities and getting everything done on time.
- Embark on a big clean up of your bedroom and desk and find a system for arranging your things that makes the best use of them.
