There is a universal truth to the marketplace: Your client today was someone else's client yesterday and will be another someone else's client tomorrow.
For me, it's about service. I'm a small shop and can't always accommodate a client's needs. I try, but I don't have the resources that a larger shop has. I deal in quality - the people I contract with have similar ethics and working practices that I have and are people I have actually known for a long time. I know that my clients are going to get the same type of service from my subs as they get from me. When they contact another agency, do they have that kind of assurance? Most likely not. It's all about bodies in chairs.
When you can't meet the demand, sometimes you have to let the client go. Hopefully they recognize you tried your best and will come back to you after being serviced by another provider and realize the value for your service. If not, it's okay. Wish them well and await your next amazing client.
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!
