In this exclusive interview, Sitigirl Magazine Nashville sits down with Torey N. Brown, the inspiring owner of Notary Now LLC. Torey shares her journey into the notary industry, her experiences as an African-American woman in the business world, and the keys to her success as a business owner. She also offers valuable advice to aspiring entrepreneurs and discusses the importance of diversity and inclusion in her business practices. Join us as we delve into Torey’s entrepreneurial journey and discover the secrets behind her thriving notary company.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: What inspired you to start your own notary company, and how did you get started in the industry?
Torey N. Brown: When my father passed away four years ago, we experienced several mistakes made by other notaries. Dealing with these errors caused inconvenience in terms of time and finances. It was then that I decided to become a notary myself. The decision to start my own company came from discovering the diverse uses for a notary signing agent. After the COVID-19 pandemic, like many others, I began considering additional streams of revenue. With the support of a great mentor, extensive research, and my previous experience as a business office manager, I gained the confidence to believe I could succeed.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: How has being an African-American woman shaped your experience in the business world, both positively and negatively?
Torey N. Brown: Being an African-American woman is a superpower, period. Unfortunately, not everyone has caught onto that yet. I am aware that I have to present and perform above average at all times because I am often underestimated. However, I have found the African-American female entrepreneurship community to be extremely supportive and welcoming. I have enjoyed the experience of educating others about the complete range of services I offer.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: What do you believe are the most important qualities for a successful business owner, and how do you cultivate these traits?
Torey N. Brown: Personally, I believe that patience, research, and organization are the most important qualities for a successful business owner. It is crucial not to compare your journey to anyone else’s. I pray for wisdom and guidance for my business and continuously educate myself to stay informed and adaptable.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and changes in the notary industry, and how do you use this knowledge to grow your business?
Torey N. Brown: The notary industry undergoes frequent changes in laws and regulations. To stay updated, I have mentors both in Nashville and Dallas who provide guidance. I also subscribe to professional industry newsletters to remain current. Additionally, I understand the importance of effective record-keeping and organization, not only for my own convenience but also for the benefit of my accountant.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: What role does your community play in your business, and how do you stay connected with your customers and colleagues?
Torey N. Brown: While I provide services to clients nationwide, my local community has played a significant role in the success of my business. I have had the opportunity to meet two of my direct clients at my ribbon-cutting event at the Chamber of Commerce, which has led to referrals and ongoing business. I make an effort to connect with my clients by meeting them for coffee or lunch, staying updated on their evolving businesses. I also provide merchandise and, depending on the appointment type, a copy of my book. I strive to create a personalized and memorable experience for each client.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a female African-American business owner, and how did you overcome it?
Torey N. Brown: If we’re speaking specifically about challenges related to my identity, the biggest challenge has been not being acknowledged for my worth. In my experience, many African Americans are unaware of the opportunities available with a notary signing agent and may hesitate to engage my services due to pricing. While I welcome everyone as a client, I refuse to diminish my value to conform to certain expectations.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: How do you balance the demands of running a business with your personal life, and what advice would you offer to other entrepreneurs struggling with work-life balance?
Torey N. Brown: Balancing the demands of running a business with my personal life is a work in progress. However, I have learned that I cannot pour from an empty cup. At my mother’s not-so-gentle suggestion, I no longer work seven days a week. I incorporate various methods of self-care, such as reading, watching a movie, taking a walk, or spending time with loved ones. Most importantly, I have learned to say no and be okay with it.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: How do you market and promote your notary services to potential clients, and what strategies have been most effective for you?
Torey N. Brown: I utilize social media, merchandise, and self-promotion to local agencies to market and promote my notary services. However, I believe that my work ethic has been my best strategy. By consistently delivering exceptional service, I have gained repeat customers and received referrals. Out-of-state vendors prefer to hire me for loan signings because they know they can rely on my professionalism and expertise.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: What sets your notary company apart from other providers in the industry, and why is this important to your customers?
Torey N. Brown: What sets Notary Now LLC apart is my commitment to punctuality, preparedness, and maintaining a track record free of errors. Additionally, my natural empathy allows me to connect with clients who may be going through challenging times. These qualities provide my customers with a custom and memorable experience that they appreciate.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned in your entrepreneurial journey so far, and how have these experiences helped you grow your business?
Torey N. Brown: One of the most important lessons I have learned is that I am my own boss, and I have the choice to accept or decline assignments. This realization has allowed me to show up as my best self. Another crucial lesson is the value of starting small and gradually expanding. It has enabled me to maintain excellence in the services I offer while strategically growing my business. With my background in accounting, I hope to start a small business finance division in the future and continue providing mentoring opportunities.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: How do you stay motivated and inspired as a business owner, and what advice would you give to other entrepreneurs struggling with burnout or self-doubt?
Torey N. Brown: I stay motivated and inspired as a business owner through the guidance and support of my two industry mentors. They make me believe in my abilities and are always available for advice and assistance. It’s essential to remember that entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a race. Recognizing this early on helps avoid burnout. Taking care of oneself is crucial for long-term success.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: What do you think the future holds for African-American women in business, and how can we support and empower one another?
Torey N. Brown: I believe African-American women can shape their own destinies, as many have already showcased their exceptional talents across various fields. The pandemic has given us the push we needed, and we haven’t looked back since. To support and empower one another, we should live by the concept that there is enough success for everyone. During my recovery from surgeries, I gladly referred my clients to a colleague and mentor. Additionally, when faced with unfamiliar assignments, I reached out to another notary signing agent for guidance. Encouragement and inspiration should be the norm within the African-American female entrepreneurial community.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: How do you prioritize diversity and inclusion in your business practices, and what steps do you take to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all?
Torey N. Brown: Prioritizing diversity and inclusion comes naturally to me. I make sure my social media presence includes representation of all races and cultures. I also celebrate different national holidays to foster community consciousness and add a touch of fun. It was important for me to have an office that is handicapped accessible due to my mother’s needs. Furthermore, I am registered as LGBT-friendly on certain platforms, as I have family members and friends from the community. I want everyone to feel welcome and valued at Notary Now.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: What are some of your proudest achievements as a business owner, and what do you hope to achieve in the future?
Torey N. Brown: One of my proudest achievements as a business owner was successfully completing my first year in business. Additionally, becoming a published author of “Guide For When I’m Gone” was a significant accomplishment for me. Given my accounting background, I hope to establish a small business finance division in the future and continue providing mentorship opportunities.
Sitigirl Magazine Nashville: Finally, what advice would you give to other African-American women who aspire to start their own businesses, and how can we create a more supportive and inclusive entrepreneurial community?
Torey N. Brown: My advice would be to start now but have a plan in place. I still vividly remember the first month when I didn’t have to use my own money as capital to cover business expenses. It was a great feeling, but it was also the result of preparation and hard work. As African-American women, we should live by the belief that there is enough success for everyone. During my recovery, it was my pleasure to refer clients to my colleague and mentor. When faced with unfamiliar assignments, I reached out to another notary signing agent for advice. Fortunately, I have been encouraged and inspired by the women in my field, and I wish that every African-American woman experiences the same level of support and inspiration.
Torey N. Brown’s inspiring journey as an African-American woman in the notary industry highlights the strength, determination, and unique perspective she brings to her business. Through her commitment to exceptional service, continuous learning, and a genuine connection with her community, Torey has established Notary Now LLC as a trusted and empathetic notary company. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly African-American women, is a testament to her belief in the power of collaboration and uplifting others. As Torey continues to make her mark in the business world, her dedication to diversity, inclusion, and unwavering professionalism sets an example for us all.
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