In an engaging and insightful interview with Lawyer Monthly, Kuldip Bhatti, a Notary Public and Solicitor, takes us through a day in his life, offering a rare glimpse into the often overlooked intricacies of a notary's routine. Kuldip begins by detailing his morning preparations, emphasizing the importance of organization and readiness for the day's appointments. He shares insights into his first tasks of the day, which are crucial for ensuring that client meetings are productive and efficient.
The interview looks at the typical interactions Kuldip has with clients seeking notarization services, highlighting his thorough approach to meeting their needs. He talks about the common challenges he faces, such as client hesitation to share documents and the uncertainty about the requirement of an apostille. In addressing these challenges, Kuldip underscores the importance of clarity and confidentiality in his work.
Join us for a day in the life of a Notary Public.
Kuldip, could you walk us through your typical morning routine on a workday? How do you prepare for the day ahead as a Notary Public?
I usually check my emails first thing in the morning to check what has come in overnight. I also check my calendar for the day to ensure I am completely ready for the day before I get to the office.
What is usually the first task you tackle when you start your workday, and why is it important to your role?
It is important to check my calendar to ensure that for any client meeting I have planned, I am completely prepared with all the information and documents I need.
Can you describe a typical interaction with a client seeking notarization services? How do you ensure their needs are met efficiently?
I always ensure that what clients are asking for requires a notary, as sometimes, a solicitor can deal with it, and a notary is not required. If a notary is required, I ask them to send me a copy of the document(s) they require notarised, along with whether they have been asked for an apostille or embassy certification.
What are some common challenges you encounter in a typical day, and how do you address them?
I often get clients stating they have a document(s) to notarise and are often reluctant to send this over and /or do not know if an apostille is required. I always ask them to check with the recipient if an apostille is required and also advise them without seeing the document beforehand, I may not be accurately able to confirm I can indeed assist or give an accurate quote. I also remind them that as notary as with solicitors, we are governed by confidentiality, so assure them that all correspondence will be dealt with in the strictest confidence.
As a Solicitor and a Notary, I can't imagine there is much time for breaks during your day, but when you do manage to step back from your work, do you use this time for professional development or to recharge your batteries?
It is important to step back. It is a mix, to be honest, as it is vital to keep updated with all the latest developments; likewise, it is important to recharge the batteries, so I do try to go for a walk or the gym.
At the end of the day, how do you reflect on and learn from the day's experiences? Do you have a process for reviewing and improving your practice?
I am always thinking of ways to improve the practice not only for myself but also for clients moving forward, so clients' needs are always being met in a clear, cohesive, and speedy manner.
Finally, how do you balance your professional responsibilities as a Solicitor and a Notary Public with your personal life? Do you have any strategies or routines that help you unwind?
Thankfully, I have a very supportive wife and daughter, who are my blessings and enable me to find a great balance between work and personal life. I am fortunate in that over the years, I have been able to compartmentalize my personal and professional life. This has helped me maximize both aspects of my life. I feel that is vital to enable the best service for the clients that I strike the right balance.
