When you are running your own business, you may be called upon to sign a contract, whether as a provider of services or as a fiduciary of your association.
READ EVERYTHING.
My judge was big on contracts (I worked in the NC Business Court). You have to know what you signed. Take the time to pore over it. Consult with your attorney. Redline it. Make sure it benefits you and not just the other party.
Stand up for yourself, your business, and your skills. Protect yourself.
Don't react emotionally and give in to the pressure of, "Oh, you can have this job for later today but you need to sign this now."
Be careful out there!
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!
