Boost Your Resume with a New Credential - Notary Public

In a recent blog post Toni Bowers cited several reports indicating that IT staff jobs will drop in number come 2009. In addition to brushing up on your tech skills consider this overlooked credential that could boost your value to a future employer. Several business documents need to be notarized and you will be in the position to save your employer time and money by providing this service.

A Notary Public in the United States serves as an impartial witness to the signing of documents and oaths. Based on state of residence, certain requirements must be met to earn a commission as a Notary Public. To earn my notary I had to obtain a $7500 bond and file paperwork with the State of Arkansas proving my eligibility. Some states require passing an examination.

So what does a notary public do, exactly? I sign and affix my seal to documents as a statement that I have confirmed the identity of the signatory who consents to the transaction knowingly and willingly. That’s it. (Notaries are forbidden to give legal advice in the US unless they possess a law license.) Documents I have verified range from photocopies, medical information release forms, Durable Power of Attorney, service contracts, and property claim forms.

Though the process of getting my notary public was deceptively easy I have learned just what this designation says about my character. I have made a commitment to honesty and integrity, and if you don’t believe me, the $7500 bond stands against my committing fraud. Notary Public appears on my resume and I can use this designation on business cards. The impression given is that I am one the State trusts with confirming legal documents. Please infer that you can trust me with your business, as well.

Becoming a Notary Public is a clever way to distinguish yourself among others and will speak volumes about your integrity. It is a relatively inexpensive credential to pad a resume with (Total Cost $120 = Surety Bond $100 + Filing Fee $20), at the least, and an honored tradition of civilization, at the most. During my service I have given parents the legal right to care for their adult children when incapacitated and helped friends claim lost property. There’s also no rule against me notarizing your oath to faithfully serve the Federation of Planets from Star Trek. Feel free to leave me a comment and we’ll be in touch!

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