Sometimes, you can do everything right - plan, practice, reconfirm - and still, you end up with an assignment that just doesn't happen.
Do you have a compensation setup for that? Do you have a minimum fee? Do your clients know it? Are you prepared to stand your ground for the value of your time?
And then when it happens, how do you respond?
We took the day and explored the area where I was supposed to be working. (It helped that it's an area we had wanted to explore for a good while anyway!)
Be like a scout, and be prepared! Sometimes the assignment that doesn't go leads to a wonderful "free day" experience.
You all know I love giving back... and I've been speaking at the local law school for many years now, sharing with the students who will be future litigators how they can work WITH court reporters to create a truly excellent record.
I love doing this - and if you have the chance, please consider doing it in your area. The "baby" lawyers appreciated it and the next generation of court reporters will too!
We all love rituals - girls nights, massages, regular workouts... but what about our working rituals?
Do you have any that ease you into your productivity? Perhaps alleviate any anxiety?
Our job as a stenographer (or captioners) is filled with stressors and if we can develop rituals for ourselves to help limit those stresses, think how healthy, happy, and productive we can become?!
I love this profession... and I love sharing it. Wherever you are, in whatever period in your career you find yourself, be an amazing advocate! Introduce people to this incredible opportunity for someone who loves English, the law, computers, learning... Be the little pebble that creates the ripple in the pond!
