The Introvert’s Guide to Being a Notary (and Actually Enjoying It)

Yuriko Jacobs
Nov 15
3 min read

So, you’re an introvert — the kind of person who needs a nap after small talk at the grocery store. And yet, you’re thinking about becoming (or already are) a notary.

You might be wondering: “Wait… do I actually have to talk to people?” Unfortunately, yes. But here’s the good news: it’s structured, short, and not nearly as scary as it seems.

Let’s break it down, introvert to introvert.

🗣️ 1. Yes, You Have to Speak — But Not Perform

Here’s the part most introverts dread: administering oaths. You have to say words. Out loud. In front of another human being.

But you’re not giving a speech — you’re following a script. It’s short, legally required, and doesn’t require eye contact longer than two seconds.

Try this simple line:

“Please raise your right hand. Do you swear or affirm that the contents of this document are true and correct?”

They’ll say “Yes.” You’ll smile politely. Boom — you just administered an oath.

No one claps. No one critiques your delivery. It’s over in five seconds.

🤝 2. Notary Work Is Structured Socializing

Introverts thrive when they know what to expect — and that’s what makes notary work perfect.

Each interaction follows a rhythm:

Greet.
Verify ID.
Watch them sign.
Stamp and journal.
Say “Thank you.”

That’s it. You’re not networking at a cocktail party. You’re guiding people through a brief, predictable process. And they want you there — they’re relying on your professionalism.

💼 3. You Don’t Have to Be “Chatty” to Be Professional

Some notaries think they have to act like a real estate agent at an open house — bubbly, loud, constantly selling themselves.

Nope. Clients actually appreciate a notary who’s calm, polite, and focused.

Try these minimalist yet warm phrases:

“Let’s get this squared away for you.”
“I’ll walk you through each step.”
“I’ll need to verify your ID before we begin.”

Professional. Friendly. Low effort. Maximum respect.

🧘 4. Prepare for the Talking Moments

If you’re the type who freezes up mid-sentence, practice your “notary script.” Literally. Say it in the mirror. Record yourself if you have to.

Create a little cheat sheet for yourself:

How to greet clients
How to ask for ID
How to administer an oath
How to close the appointment

You’re not winging it — you’re executing a routine. Introverts love routines.

🚗 5. Mobile Notary? Plan for Energy Management

If you’re doing mobile signings, pace yourself. Don’t cram five appointments back-to-back. Leave time in between to recharge — eat, stretch, breathe, or stare into space like a cat.

Being an introvert doesn’t mean you can’t handle client interaction — it just means you need to budget your energy like gas mileage.

💬 6. Quiet Confidence Is Your Superpower

Introverts tend to listen better, notice details others miss, and create a calm atmosphere — all traits clients adore.

In a profession built on trust, those traits make you stellar. You don’t need to dominate the room. You just need to show up prepared, steady, and professional.

✍️ Final Thoughts

Being a notary isn’t about being loud — it’s about being reliable. And introverts do “reliable” better than anyone.

So go ahead — take your oath (quietly, but confidently). You don’t need to change who you are. You just need to speak up when it counts — and you already know how to do that.