"A Quick Note" from... "A Quick Note"

Jason Crouch You Inspire Me... Contest entry

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 22:55:37 -0600

In reading the contest rules, I could only come up with one song! This one, a "Laugh-in" staple from the late 60's has a couple youtube incarnations...

The first gets right to the heart of TURN THAT SONG OFF :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYnjASLYKdA

The second, has Rowan and Martin mugging along:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skU-jBFzXl0

I vividly remember these from my childhood! If I dont win, I PROMISE you will hear these again!!

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

Firefighters, Foreclosures, Modifications and Mindsets...can I help?

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 16:12:50 -0600

With Southern Californians once again wiping smoke-induced sleep from their eyes, modification specialists and attorneys working to avoid thousands of expected foreclosures from happening and a nation inundated with economic doom and gloom, it is a wonder to see acts of goodness occurring before your eyes. During continuous coverage of the Yorba Linda, CA fire last night, I witnessed one home from the moment it caught fire, to fully involved, to reduced to rubble. While I watched, two unnamed police officers from the city of Buena Park (at least their police car said that's where they were from) stood on the roof of the next-door neighbors home, keeping embers from igniting and taking it as well. They did this armed with nothing more than a garden hose as firefighters were occupied with other fires that had hopscotched from neighborhood to neighborhood. Had they not held the line, the fire would have gone house to house and decimated every single home on the street.

It seems to me that these cops (and would-be firefighters) achieved their mandate to "protect and serve" the property belonging to residents of a neighboring city. It made me stop and think that if only we all pitched in to help our neighbor, just how much we could achieve. The mortgage melt-down is not exactly a "natural disaster" and certainly there is enough blame to go around. Still, if only we could all suck-it up and give a little extra of ourselves, consumer confidence might return and move our businesses forward. As a longtime believer in "the power of positive thinking", I was reminded that we all must make our own luck sometimes.

To this end, I extend my hand of friendship to those personally impacted by the wildfires of 2008. From today through January 1st, 2009, I offer my Mobile Notary Services [free of charge] to any family (in Orange County) that has lost their home or has been displaced by fire or fire damage. Please feel free to contact me if I can be of assistance to you by notarizing your documents:

Contact: Shannon Ziccardi

"A Quick Note" Mobile Notary and Document Delivery Service

P.O. Box 1275

Lake Forest, CA 92609-1275

(949) 279-6874 main

(714) 242-1789 fax

www.aquicknote.net

Aquicknote.notary@gmail.com

Follow me on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/aquicknote

Beyond that, please do all you can each day to return confidence to our financial outlook by refusing to give into doom and gloom, keeping your chins up and seeing that the glass really is "half-full".

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

Over 50% of homeowners go into foreclosure without ever speaking to their lender.

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 09:17:54 -0600

An eye-opening statistic to be sure. Is this because lenders are/were understaffed when the wave of defaults hit? Or is it because they were inundated without a plan? It seems that even today (November/08) some lenders are dragging their feet and slow to act. Are they afraid of all the legislation happening at the federal and state levels? It seems that keeping buyers in their homes [somehow] is better than holding rows and rows of empty ones.

"A Quick Note" ( www.aquicknote.net ) is a Notary Signing Agent looking to conduct loan modifications in Southern California and nationwide using our own database of over 1600 NSA's. Follow me on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/aquicknote

I've seen a buzzkill to positive posting...I may be corny, but I'm happier for it!

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 12:00:47 -0600

I was drawn to a post about the biggest lies on AR. The author wrote a funny and entertaining piece about lies told on AR. In reading the massive list of commentary-some of which was even more hilarious than the original post- I ran across this excerpt (one response):

[...I have an addition to the list.

"I am a fountain of positivity!"

This whopper is usually told by someone masquerading as the most upbeat and encouraging person on AR, when lo and behold they reveal themselves to be among the most judgemental and petty. "Live and let live ... as long as you live and act like I do."]

Although this responder hadn't targeted me personally, his one comment really made me stop and reevaluate my own participation here because I have tried to be a champion for Good News as of late. As for being judgemental and petty, I'd hope that that isn't me. But, we all make choices out here and we all discriminate each time we choose one thing over another.

So, I asked myself why I do this positive posting thingy, and here is what I came up with:

1. All the posts of DOOM and GLOOM have really begun to get me down and made me a more unhappy guy.

-by sharing and spreading only good news, I have sought to reverse that trend in others as well as myself.

2. I have personally (whether others choose to believe this or not) seen what "the power of positive thinking" has been able to affect in my own life. I believe that, at least, acting upbeat will help you to become upbeat and that "fake it until you make it" is a philosophy that will bring each of us through a particularly rough time.

-We each make the choice to take on the new day when we rise. Choosing to take it on in a friendlier, happier way is merely an extension of that. After all, if we had chosen to pull the covers over our head and do nothing, we would guarantee NOTHING good could or would happen in our life today.

3. I tend to take things personally...business or not. Writing about or saying positively reinforcing things helps me BE more positive. KEY POINT: Being happy can be a choice one makes verses simply a state of mind.

-I've always worn my heart on my sleeve. The people I work with, my family and friends and even acquaintences often comment that I am a particularly straight arrow and a bit of a goody-goody. Aside from the occasional bend of "the basic speed law" when behind the wheel, they are right about me. I have a job where fraud is a big deal. I've been DOJ background checked for two of my certifications and fingerprinted too. I tell the truth to people I work with and for and I make affiants raise their right hand and swear an oath (of truth) several times each week. You might say honesty is my business.

4. Knocking someone down is always easier than picking someone up, helping them find their feet and giving them a supportive comment as they restart their journey.

-as both a blessing and a curse, I have always chosen a more difficult path in my own life. Certainly for me, being self-employed in a mortgage market that has literally dwindled down to next-to-nothing (believe it or not) is better than grinding away at a dead-end job that I'd hate.

I belive that continuing to spread the good news that I find is better than telling everyone the sky is falling or telling those I meet that the end is at hand. I believe that tomorrow will be better than today, the sky is NOT falling and that the glass really is half-full. I believe we need to keep our chins up and our eyes on the prize.

Have I proven myself to be corny and old-fashioned in my thinking here? A bit of a square? Guilty as charged!! But, better than the alternative right?:

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

My kid, the B-52's and the Power of Positive Thinking...What Inspires you?

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:40:53 -0500

Today, I was making my normal morning trek, dropping my freshman daughter at school with one eye open and mussed hair...thank goodness for my "guy cap" and sunglasses. She quickly grabbed my MP3 player and searched through my wide variety of music landing on the B-52's "Love Shack". Well, if coffee doesn't work for ya, and this song doesn't perk you up, you just may already be dead! That upbeat and happy tune had me thumping the steering wheel with my thumb and took me back to the 80's when I first heard it as I sang along. It is as fresh and as energetic today as when I first heard it back then.

I truly enjoy our morning conversations and I usually end up ranting to her about something philosophical or that I feel passionate about [her grades or politics for example]. I realize more and more each day how our talks have impacted her. More than imprinting my own values and opinions [or musical choices] upon her, I have tried to encourage her to look at things from all sides and thus, find her own solutions. It's funny. I've sometimes found myself playing devil's advocate and challenging her with opinions that are in direct opposition to my own. For me, it is more important that she make wise and informed choices and demonstrates the qualities attributed to a "thinking" person.

Since her first experiences at Montessori school long ago I have challenged her to find a new perspective and see things that may at first glance go unnoticed. I remember that my ex [then my wife] had been driving her for a week or so before I took over and she immediately noticed the route I had taken. "Mommy doesn't go this way" she said to me in a worried and semi-scolding way. "Well" I told her, "I'm sure there are many, many ways that I go that Mommy doesn't". To prove my point, each day for the next month or so, I deliberately drove a different route each day thus expanding and challenging her perspective. Today, I see her weigh decisions carefully, and choose wisely.

Recognizing I am not unlike my child, I have tried to challenge the parameters of my own thinking about the current economic crisis our country faces. I have not been unaffected by the massive changes that the real estate/mortgage industry has handed all of us these last two years. I have improvised and adapted and now I persevere...and I'm now looking forward to the day when I will overcome. Life has a way of challenging each of us to find the best in ourselves and in others. I'm constantly surprised by the good I find and the kindness of acquaintances with whom I speak and correspond. My time spent on social networking continues to be rewarding.

I reached a conclusion that when one has tried all that they know, what remain are all the things that we must continue to strive to learn (BRILLIANT HUH?). I've looked "outside the box". Today, I'll begin my search for a whole new box. It seems when one is at the bottom of the barrel, one must find a NEW barrel...and so it goes!

Such processing of information [for me] typically boils back down to what I call the "Power of Positive Thinking". No, I haven't read that particular self-help book. But, I constantly find myself being more positive when I remind myself to be. I find myself more successful when I see success all around me and when I believe that I will be more successful. Human nature grinds us toward negativity each and every day, and so, it is a constant struggle to remain positive, to see the glass as half-full and to chase away the purveyors of doom and gloom. Each day, one must find the inspiration to see something good...or simply to find their way. Today, for me, it was my daughter, the B-52's and sharing my thoughts on positive thinking with the people who might read this post. You are invited to try mine tomorrow...but only if you share a small inspiration with me so that I might try yours tomorrow as well.

Keep your chins up out there!

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

If you can't get out of it, .......you gotta get INTO IT!

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 12:59:57 -0500

Well, I know I'm facing alot!!

...Another birthday, another year older. An upcoming 30 year reunion...and all that THAT implies.

...A teenage daughter and her entry into high-school life...(boys be warned-I bought a shotgun the day she was born and thus, have had plenty of practice on how to USE IT!)

...The challenge of building my business in a rebounding economy...and defying the odds to stay self-employed at all costs!

Then again, I suppose I'm not really a stick-in-the-mud either. I did, some six years ago, leave a middle-management career of 25 years to strike out on my own and become self-employed. Not from an over-abundance of bravery, but rather my decision was made from a place of frustration. Upon reflection, I suppose my very long (25 year) fuse and comfort with the familiar did little or nothing to advance my career. Only when I finally chose to "get into it" for myself did I finally feel rewarded. While money is wonderful to have and is certainly a measure of ones success, the satisfaction of making your own business decisions is far more valuable to me.

So many things in life are challenging each of us. Not the least of which is change itself. I suppose I have usually avoided change. Opting instead for the familiar, the comfortable and peace of mind in doing everything I've always done and doing it the way I've always done it. We've all heard "if you can't beat 'em join 'em"...my new take: If you can't get out of it, you gotta get into it!

As a believer in "The Power of Positive Thinking" and knowing what can be created when I remain positive, I have struggled for new and different ways to remind myself that more good things will come my way. With so much emphasis placed upon the negative aspects of our economy and with so few sources of positive influence, I have been left to my own devices to motivate and inspire myself daily. In calling upon that frustration that served me so well in improving my career direction, I emplore each reader to dig deep and find the good. But, no matter where you find that good of which I write, it will only inspire others if you take the next step...the step of sharing it with others.

I truly believe that today will be a good day. I hope you believe it too and that you share your belief with all who would listen. Make it so.

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

you may follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/aquicknote

Believe that this trickle will become a stream...then a raging river of Good News

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 11:16:24 -0500

I have sparred with several "doomsayers" of late as to the state of our economy. While it would be simpler to join 'em rather than beat 'em, I've decided it is even more important to highlight the good news beginning to trickle out there. Nobody knows better than the AR membership about all the negativity being strewn about. Having a deep belief in the power of positive thinking, and believing that good news will in and of itself bolster consumer confidence, I ran across this article that contained good news and felt compelled to share it with all of you:

http://transparentre.com/2008/10/20/steady-trickle-of-good-news-to-prop-up-the-mood-of-the-economy.aspx

Remember folks: Keep your chin up! See the glass as half-full and never give in to the forces of doom and gloom...believe that things will improve and work to make it happen!

Best wishes!

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

This question still comes up now and then...What is an NSA?

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 12:45:06 -0500

A Notary Signing Agent is a Notary Public with specific training and familiarity with the signing of Mortgage Loan Documents. Specifically, I obtain documents from mortgage brokers or escrow officers, schedule appointments for their borrowers and go to their homes or offices to conduct their closing. While notaries refrain from offering advice, as we are not attorneys, we do facilitate a smoother closing at the signing table as we can quickly direct the borrower to the documents/areas where needed information can be found. Most borrowers walk away from the signing with a better understanding of their loan and calmer than had they been left alone to navigate the process.

I can also help you find an NSA nation wide using my own database of over 1600 Notary Signing Agents!

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

Disclaimer...CAUTION-Good News Ahead...some "CAN'T HANDLE THE TRUTH!!"

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:39:02 -0500

Let me begin by telling you that I'm a NOTARY SIGNING AGENT. This is the profession that I love and am truly best suited to do. I belong to a number of Notary-related (and other) groups here on Active Rain. With all the bad news we see and hear each day, both on the blogs and in what we read and watch on the news, my latest beef has been that GOOD NEWS is few and far between. I wrote a blog commenting on the positive movement in the DOW on Monday to counter all the doom and gloom that followed the previous week of stock market volatility.

My post, http://activerain.com/blogsview/737705/DOW-Climbing-on-renewed was added for RE professionals and to each of several Notary Groups that I belong to. Notaries have seen their businesses suspended, altered their operating procedures drastically or folded up their operations in search of a "day job". My intent was to begin priming the pump with good news since had I chosen to do nothing, the doomies would again have won the day. I'm not so naive to believe that my "good news" post would turn the tide of our recent financial crisis. But, I intended my post to be seen as a ray of hope that a return to positive ground is in the making. After all, CONSUMER CONFIDENCE is one thing that is holding our economy down right now.

My post was promptly removed by the administrator of the group NOTARY SIGNING AGENTS by the group Founder/Administrator. I appealed to the group as a whole, briefly explaining my side of the situation with this post to the group: http://activerain.com/blogsview/738511/Specifically-related-unwilling-to This second post was also removed so I sent an Active Rain message direct to the administrator questioning his motives for removing a post that contained Good News. Here is his unbelievable response:

From: Leon Austin
To: Shannon Ziccardi
Sent: Tuesday, October 14, 2008 2:11:06 AM
Subject: Re: Why remove my posts? (Sent via Activerain)

There is no relationship between a one day swing in the stock market and Notary Signing Agents. Our economy is in a recession. And what happened yesterday is not going to bring us out of it.
Shannon, the stock market fluctuations are not an indicator of the state of the economy. The stock market is being moved by investors who buy on dips in stock prices, then sell when they are ready to take profits.
That has nothing to do with Notary Signing Agents.

Leon Austin, CNSA

Here is the message I sent back:

Dear Mr. Austin,

Your logic seems undeniably flawed. A one day swing in the DOW has been precisely the difference for many businesses and individuals, financial institutions and members of the public at large who make up our client base. Perhaps you have insulated yourself from the real world or are not personally invested in the stock market. I, however am a NOTARY PUBLIC and recognize that the financial conditions of our clients are exactly related to how notaries earn a living.

I'm removing my name from your group as you do not allow real Notary Signing Agents to express their true and honest opinions without censorship. Rest assured that while you hold the power to silence the Notaries associated with your group, you will see our writing and hear our voices raised up elsewhere.

Regards,

Shannon Ziccardi

Obviously, I'm a little ticked off at this point or I wouldn't have gone to such lengths to share this story. My question for each of you is this: What is the deal with those who only wish to hear the negative, the bad, the ugly news and reject any stories that bring hope or are designed to promote consumer confidence to return in our Real Estate/Mortgage related businesses? I for one believe that much of this consumer confidence problem our nation is experiencing can be overcome simply by saying it WILL be overcome and then choosing to work hard every day to fulfill that prophecy.

What do you think?

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

DOW Climbing on renewed confidence? GOOD NEWS FOUND!!

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 11:21:02 -0500

As I write, the DOW has hit positive territory (+534.12)...it seems that the sky did not fall. After a difficult and record-setting decline last week, numerous announcements by the FED, the Treasury and the President of the United States, along with many world leaders and organizations, it seems the rebound has begun.

Last week, I looked high and low, far and wide. I asked those I know and many I do not. I searched wickipedia, Google and my own heart. Finally, I actually found good news here and on other forums where other middle-class Americans displayed their positive outlook and reminded me that we still live in a country of optimism. I was amazed to find that regardless of what people say in their business life Monday through Friday, they typically BELIEVE that a comeback is imminent on the weekends.

I awoke to the sound of the Santa Ana wind blowing leaves and pine needles against my window today. While the threat of fire, and with the looming memory of a horrific fire season of 2007 creates trepidation in Southern Californians, we are ready to get back to work. We see the opportunity our country offers as we always have...even through the smoke. We FIGHT fires and we will FIGHT for such opportunity.

Don't buy into the naysayers and the purveyors of doom and gloom. Choose to see the glass as being half-FULL. TELL PEOPLE that GOOD is what you see, hear and believe. It's funny how a little good news can create a ripple of good deeds. Just IMAGINE what a wave of good news could do! Best wishes to each of you for a productive and successful week. Choose to have a GOOD week...and you will!

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

NOTE: This post was removed from the NOTARY SIGNING AGENT group posts. I suppose my message of positivity in a time when everyone is telling us that life as we know it is over is not the message that administrator wishes to advance.

For the record, I am a Notary Signing Agent and that is my primary line of work. Keep your chins up!!(DOW closed +936. for the day...I call that a good start!)

Three Rules of Management (Perception v.s. Reality)

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:02:44 -0500

In a 25 year career as a middle-manager in the restaurant business, I gave this speech once to each of the hundred-or-so persons I personally hired each year. I told them:

Our Company has many policies and procedures that will make or break your career based upon how you act upon them during your time spent working here.

Beyond THOSE rules, I have only 3 rules that must be adhered to in order to avoid termination:

1. DON'T LIE TO ME

Regardless of any problem we are addressing on a daily basis within the operation, a lie creates an entirely "NEW" problem/issue that did not previously exist and creates new and unnecessary challenges and wastes valuable time until it is uncovered.

2. DON'T STEAL FROM ME (my business)

Such action is counter to all efforts exerted in the operation of our business and is in direct opposition to the reason you are being hired today.

and finally....

3. GOD HELP YOU IF YOU EMBARRASS ME OR OUR OPERATIONS!

Never allow what we do to be seen as a joke. Be prepared each day to both represent yourself and our business in a professional and competent manner. When supervisors ask you questions, give a complete and well informed answer or immediately and honestly admit you do not know-but, will find out. Never allow yourself or (more importantly) our business to be seen as unprofessional, uneducated or unprepared. Always be certain that your clients and your supervisors perceive you in a way that will be taken seriously...

Certainly, we have all made our own gaffs in our own business lives. Such missteps are human in nature and unavoidable to some extent. The idea was to remind candidates that we take our business seriously and insist that they do the same. I found that by laying out the "three rules" up front, I retained many more of the type of employees I desired.

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

Translating 'Vows of Love' to improve your business life...

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 12:34:21 -0500

Love is patient.

awaiting success will test the boundaries of that patience.

Love is kind.

being kind is not so difficult, yet we easily forget to be.

It does not envy

it celebrates the successes of your competitors and learns from others only what you'd aspire to be.

it does not boast,

but rather allows the production to speak for itself.

It is not proud.

be not proud of your business, but rather confident in your ethical treatment of others in the course of operating your business.

It is not rude,

not ever...never!

It is not self-seeking,

it seeks to serve others and provide them with what they need first.

It is not easily angered,

for anger will not draw others to you but rather... repell them instead.

It keeps no record of wrongs.

and is forward looking and does not dwell upon the wrongs that have been bestowed...

Love does not delight in evil

and nor does a successful business...

but, rejoices with the truth.

for the truth allows you to move forward more quickly and maintain your reputation.

It always protects,

and stands behind those who have upheld such truth and ethical standards...

always trusts,

those who have proven their trustworthiness and assumes the best of all new acquaintences.

always hopes,

for hope is simply the beginning of an ideal...

always perseveres.

as in business, we will always have ups and downs and moments of doubt-but, moving forward is essential.

Love never fails.

and a business represented by a person who loves their work will indeed venture on.

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

Reasonable care of documents on board...

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 04:04:27 -0500

Here is a hypothetical I toyed with in a discussion elsewhere...I'm trying to see where NSA's draw the lines regarding document custody.

It's Friday afternoon and you pick up documents for a 6:30 PM loan signing about an hour from home. As you leave, the escrow officer says "don't bother trying to drop documents as we have no drop slot. Just return them on Monday". "No problem" you say, "see you then". On the drive to the signing, a friend calls and says "I heard you were going out to anytown USA to do a signing. Be sure to swing by on your way home and have some BBQ and a few laughs. It's right on your way home".

The signing goes smooth and without any issues. Docs are on-board, signed and sealed. When you arrive at the friends house, you place them in the trunk along with your bag and stamp. You lock all doors and set the car alarm and place the only key in your pocket.

Q: Have you excercised "reasonable care" of the documents in question?

Q: Should you have done something more?

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

Is it slow?....I'd go play golf....if I could afford it!

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 20:02:42 -0500

Is it slow?....I'd go play golf....if I could afford it!

One of my kids goes to Community College and works at the local country club. One of the perks is free golf at numerous courses throughout Southern California....(you know the ones that I can't afford to play at).... The little rat drives golf carts, hustles bags and does tournament set-ups for tips, gets the finest free instruction from real professionals that he's actually "friends" with and then plays free golf in every possible moment of daylight that he has. As a result, he's become quite the little artisan around the links, made the college team and is now playing "scratch" golf. I used to drag him around the little 9 hole course near our home....he recently shot two hole-in-ones there. But I'm not jealous. I'm not bitter...much.
I just wish that on a beautiful Southern California day like today my phone would ring so that I could go to work and stop thinking about it.

Call me if you need a Notary Signing Agent!

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

Any other Techno-Mobile Offices out there?

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 11:38:16 -0500

Any other Techno-Mobile Offices out there?

I am a huge believer in technology. On board I utilize the following gadgets: Of course my blue-tooth cell phone, voice activated GPS (couldn't live without it), my laptop on a very cool device called an Airdesk with wireless internet of course, a Traffic Gauge which gives me readings on freeway traffic throuout the greater L.A. and Orange county areas and saves me hundreds of miles each month, a laser printer-for all those last minute emails and faxes that title/escrow like to send and my ZUNE MP3 player to keep me rollin'.

Am I missing anything? I must need a new toy....... :-)

"A Quick Note"

Mobile Notary and Document Delivery Service

www.aquicknote.net

121,569 views...have you seen my ad on AR?

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 20:01:45 -0500

Well, I'm nearing the completion of my "test" advertisement on ACTIVE RAIN. I was just wondering if you may have been one of the 121,569 views and might have seen my site? The ad has run in four Southern California Counties. (Orange, L.A., Riverside and San Diego). It would be helpful for my cost evaluation if you could address these questions for me:

1. Have you seen my Ad?

2. If yes, what County are you in?

3. If yes, did the AR ad stand out or otherwise seem appealing to you?

3. Did you "click through" to my website?

4. If yes, can you please give a brief evaluation of the site itself?

HERE IS WHAT IT LOOKED LIKE:

Hire A Professional

Certified Loan Signer and
Notary/Signing Service

(949) 279-6874

Thanks for your assistance!

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

Blog success? Is it tone or content or something else altogether?

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:42:51 -0500

I try to monitor the tenor of my blogs.

Don't be too political. Don't be too sarcastic. Don't be unprofessional. Don't be so serious. Don't get too chummy. Don't SELL so much...you'll turn people off!! I actually hear this inner-monologue as I write.

Yet, when I review my writing, especially after some time has passed, I find that I sometimes seem preachy, dry and only occasionally get my deeper points across. It's true, I'm not here for the party-I want to draw people to my business. GUILTY. I want people to take me seriously but yet also want them to receive a certain "entertainment value" for their time invested in reading my stuff.

True, I am a frustrated writer (and apparently I'm not alone). The kind who has alot to say, is capable of saying it well, but sometimes lacks the discipline it takes to really write well. Funny, my work ethic is exactly the opposite. I always allow extra time, I show up on time (usually early). I meticulously double-check things too..perhaps a bit OCD. I like things neat, but sometimes have a hard time keeping them that way. Time management can be a problem too, when business is booming. But, I suppose that is true for everyone right?

I wonder about the little stuff when I write. Should I add a photo or a graphic? Is that just too cluttered looking? How will it affect my meaning(s)? Oh heck! I worry about the big stuff too! Will my target audience be reached? Have I been clear in my descriptions and with tongue firmly planted in cheek, have I brushed away the cobwebs and successfully urged someone to my point of view? Have I motivated readers to see me as someone that they like? After reading my post, could these readers be motivated to work with me-if not now-somewhere down the road?

This whole blogging phenomenon is a mystery to me... I know it positively impacts my business Google rating significantly. It feels a bit like "voodoo marketing". I keep doing it because I enjoy it. But, I'd rather do it because I'm seeing results.

Anyone have blogging success formulas to share? Like Ross Perot once said: "I'm all ears".

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

Don't want what I'm offering? That's OK, ...but why so rude?

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 12:17:40 -0500

I've continued utilizing my marketing skills through this rough market and found that many simply are not looking for the skillset I offer. That's O.K. I mean, that's the gamble of marketing. You put yourself or your business on the block and offer what you do or sell to the potential client. Sometimes, they will pick you. Sometimes they will not.

I gave you that preface to tell you this story:

I have some long-term clients who are mortgage brokers and partners and also brothers. They, like all of us, have seen the ups and downs of the market. Still, whenever they have work for a Notary Signing Agent they call me to conduct the closing (I sometimes wish my dog...or even my own kids were as faithful). Recently, having started a new company and for reasons of logistics, the brothers called me to conduct a closing on a reverse mortgage for a client I had personally signed (refi's) on three previous occasions. They connected me with their "NEW" escrow company and the escrow officer with instructions to contact her and arrange for pick-up and delivery of documents. When I called her busy office, I got voicemail, but left a detailed message about who I was, stated my business and indicated that I'd like to pick up documents. As I am one to communicate fairly well, I shot an email to the brothers letting them know I had left word and was awaiting either a return call or email and I cc'd the escrow officer as well. Within moments, I received an email from "Ms. Escrow" stating that she would have documents ready by 3pm. I promptly responded by thanking her and let her know I would be by around 3:15pm to pick up the documents (I've learned that giving escrow teams that extra 15 minutes makes all the difference).

Having explained the new escrow situation of the brothers to my wife [and business partner], she suggested on my way out the door that I take her some candy as a good first impression. We often try to prime the pump when meeting new clients. After all, she certainly has more signing work than do our clients [the brothers] and we are always looking for more work right? So, I dug into my own personal stash of chocolate covered macademia nuts (having recently been to the islands, I stocked up) and headed out the door to pick up docs.

I arrived on-time (3:15pm), which is a trademark of my brand and one of my core beliefs. The documents, as promised were on the counter with the receptionist with my name on them. I thanked the receptionist and asked her if I could have just a moment with "Ms. Escrow" to introduce myself and deliver her a gift. In a few minutes an assistant came up front to meet me explaining that "Ms. Escrow" was swamped and just couldn't break away right now. I stated that I understand how busy escrow departments could be but that was a "good thing" right? I asked that the assistant please pass along the chocolates, a few of my business cards and my thanks for the work. Stating "please let her know we would love to have her business and to call if she needs anything at all".

The signing went well, there were no issues and the client (an 85 year old woman) remembered me well and was a delight to see and sign again. Within moments of signing, I sent a text-to-email message to "Ms. Escrow" and the brothers letting them know that the signing was completed and that docs would be returned to escrow within the hour. Within seconds, I received a thank you message from the brothers. When I arrived to deliver documents at escrow about 20 minutes later, "Ms. Escrow" again could not be disturbed. So, I left the documents and invoice again attaching my business card and a leaving a message with reception of "thank you/thank her" for the business. I followed up with a confirmation email that docs were delivered to reception bcc'd to the brothers so they could track their documents. In my email, I outlined my services/service area, website information and left phone numbers.

Two weeks later, I received payment from the escrow company. To which, I immediately sent an email thanking both "Ms. Escrow", the brothers and the client who signed. The brothers both replied thanking me.

"Ms. Escrow" has still never met me. She has never responded to me, never said thank you or even acknowledged that I exist.

Now, being a "glass is half-full" kind of guy, I'd like to say this experience was an anomoly. But, it seems that in my experience, it has become a trend in recent years. I simply describe the good behaviors that I exhibited as being a "professional". I've examined myself. Nope no B.O. Yep, professionally dressed and not too shabby [perhaps too thick around the middle-but outgoing and friendly with a good sense of humor make up for that right?]. What could it possibly be that causes some folks to be unresponsive, self-involved and for lack of a better word, rude? My parents raised me to be the person I am so I probably can't change in terms of how I do what I do. Just wondering what more some people want and desire...

" A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

MILLION DOLLAR LISTING (on BRAVO)-a phenomenon in reality TV? YIKES!!!

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 01:08:54 -0500

I imagine the RE agents here on Active Rain must be thrilled to have three seemingly confused juvenile delinquents (they are supposedly somewhat older than that but certainly don't act it) earning hundreds of thousands of dollars while doing what seems to be little or nothing each episode. All three of these "poor little rich kids" use their family contacts and many questionable tactics to squeeze clients out of way too much money for their minimal efforts. This all happens while they drive new "custom" Mercedes and purchase $650 designer tennis shoes between manicure/pedicures and the cocktail hour. I've worked hard to grind my own teenagers into an understanding and appreciation of hard work is and what it returns. I feel undermined when I see these brats move a dual listing for over $300 grand in less than a 24 hour turnaround. I'm sure it is demeaning to professional real estate agents to have these overprivileged and unappreciative youngsters portray your profession in such a petty light...

As if that weren't enough, we are then exposed to each of their personal lives...a primping 30 year old [who looks as if he's 12] proposing his girlfriend [who might look 13] become a live-in,... a sexually confused Malibu boy on a blind date with a same-sex partner set up by "friends",... and an overindulged grandmas-boy who tries desperately to impress his motly group of brat-pack rejects with his drinking skills.

I was sorta wondering what you RE brokers/agents think about this slop...hmmm?

Well, back to the salt mines...actually, I'm a Notary Signing Agent (THANK GOD)!!

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

More non-traditional advertising attempts from the running man...

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 22:11:00 -0500

What methods of non-traditional advertising have I tried in order to promote my Notary Signing business?

Short answer: you name it, I've probably tried it...

Long answer: Business cards, direct mail (post-cards), local publications-telephone directory, community maps with coupons, cold-calling, Website creation, email marketing, magnetic vehicle signage, vinyl window lettering, spinner signage (kids on corners), bootleg signage at offramps and major cross-streets, purchased notary listings on notary websites, joined and active member of various notary-related and real estate websites, purchased paid listings for targeted areas across Southern California, and information/free listings on every free website listing service that I can find.

My latest folly? I'm co-oping for flyer/coupon placement on delivery pizza boxes with a well-known national chain for distribution in an area I can easily service.

My greatest difficulty has been getting to my target audience (escrow officers, mortgage brokers and attorneys) by figuring out how to get past their receptionist/gatekeepers. I've tried bribes like Starbucks Coffee, Krispy Kremes, Chocolate Covered Macademia Nuts and even bottles of wine during the holidays.

Please note that all of these methods have been relatively inexpensive. I'm looking for ways to expand my exposure to John Q. Public and perhaps then reach my target by way of ...well...by accident.

What inexpensive methods of advertising have you had successes with?

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

We've given "Our kingdom for a horse!"...bad trade?

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 11:34:12 -0500

I have a theory that says: As soon as the Presidential election is over and done with, [regardless of who wins] our overall economic and housing market will "magically" return and be great all of a sudden...The last time this theory worked in practice was 2000.

The "doom and gloom" crowd (politicos) love to paint an ugly picture just in case their candidate wins...then he can look like a hero for bringing us hope...if he doesn't win, they don't have to modify their thinking at all and are prepared to say "see I told you so,...you should have elected my guy".

So many economic indicators are truly positive that a hero will definitely be born on innauguration day...and then we can all get back to business! Our underlying economy is incredibly strong despite what you may have heard. The only thing stalling a recovery is consumer confidence. Again, as soon as the election is over, consumer confidence (fueled by the media, as is the doom and gloom) will rebound and somehow our new president will get all the credit.

So many threads are devoted to topics like: "Have we hit the bottom?" or "Leading economists say our recovery will start [insert your date]" An interesting note is that everyone believes the economy can come back. Most believe that it will come back. We all seem to want it back. I wish we could all, collectively, turn ourselves over to the power of positive thinking. Then, we wouldn't need a "temp" to boost our spirits every eight years. Then, consumer confidence would be the leading indicator...not the one that lags behind and we, like lemmings, all wait for!

What do you think?

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

Do you have AGS .....or perhaps even the dreaded DQDITHD?

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 16:14:49 -0500

I am beginning to wonder if I have AGS . It seems to attack middle-aged (ugh) men. Seemingly average, but worldly and intelligent (debatable) individuals are suddenly struck down in their prime. They awaken one day to have zero charisma and worse, little if any relevance. Victims of AGS are scorned and shunned which appears to be their own self-fulfilling prophecy. Nice guys finish last... Yes, its true. You ARE boring!! The namesake of this syndrome has often been mistaken as having less personality than the agents who protect him.

Are you also a victim of Al Gore Syndrome?

You may ask why I feel that I was stricken with such a horrible and life-altering affliction. I have had numerous positive, professional relationships with the clients I have served in the past. I get to know them, provide my services (sometimes hundreds of closings) to their escrow office, mortgage brokerage, real estate or law offices. Then, suddenly and without warning, they close their doors forever...sometimes heading back to workat the local McDonalds. They forget they know me or to pass my card along to their new employer(s). They find new people to go to lunch with...imagine! Perhaps in the cosmic theme of things, I upset the balance by being consistent and flawless and expanding my offerings while being a professional who gets things done right the first time.

Why then, was I stricken? Nice guys do finish last...that's why! I will now go back to work, alone and await their phone-calls that may never come. All the while I will remember the glory days and try to hide my private shame.

I continue to look upon things in an upbeat and positive way!!

The sky is NOT falling. The Fed continues to keep a lid on interest rates and inventory is starting to move again. Even gasoline prices are dropping again...not a bad thing for a Mobile Notary/Signing Agent (NSA) who once put 180,000 miles on his vehicle in just two years. Besides, it could always be worse. I could have DQDITHD. That would be terrible as AGS is at least curable and something that an NSA can come back from. DQDITHD on the other hand, is forever!

Yes, Dan-Quayle-Deer-In-The-Headlights-Disease (DQDITHD) is something that NOBODY has ever come back from...

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

Running man brings new meaning to 20k

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 22:55:03 -0500

The running man? He's my logo and a metaphor for the craziness I experience when business is good. My best example?: My best day ever-(12) twelve sets of loan documents (across six counties) signed, sealed and delivered. I left for my first appointment that day at 4AM. My final appointment concluded at 2AM. That, was a good day!!

...And the 20k? Anyone who has met me "LIVE and in-person" knows that if I walked a 10k- much less ran one, I'd be a wheezing heart-attack waiting-to-happen long before the finish line...perhaps my New Years resolution (2009) should be to get in shape. I can mow on quite a few Krispy Kreme's and Mocha Frappucinos before then anyways... :)

No, the 20k I'm celebrating (WooHoo!) is my point total on AR. Participating here has become part of my daily routine. Although I don't always post, I try to read and make a comment or two. I'm learning a lot about the RE community here and in my home (Orange) County, (CA) too. Thanks for the banter, the input and the friendship you have bestowed upon me...

"A Quick Note"

http://www.aquicknote.net/

I've tried all methods of entry to no avail...I may just have to "tunnel in"

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 03:48:55 -0500

Every Title/Escrow office and mortgage brokerage has one you cannot get past. She's the "receptionist" and she is usually young and at least bordering on beautiful...but, she is fierce. Fierce, because she wants to be promoted from receptionist to "escrow assistant"...a thankless job that pays more but will still have her answering phones when the "new girl" calls in sick or takes time for lunch. She's fierce to keep me out! I've brought her candy, Starbucks coffee, Krispy Kremes and bottles of wine during the holidays. All of these attempts have failed to get my foot in the door.

What exactly was I attempting you ask? Simply to introduce my services and myself as a Notary Signing Agent to either a Senior Escrow Officer or an Office Manager to launch a working relationship with their office. Without fail, he or she is "in a meeting", "uses a large signing service", "signs his/her own deals" or "allows the mortgage broker to select their own notary".

Introductions are more difficult today. Leaving business cards used to be an effective technique...today, I'm not so sure. One has to avoid being seen as a SPAMMER so beyond an introduction email, that route is not a good one. Websites are a requirement for any serious business...but optimizing your site to receive hits is quite a science. Participation on blogs, forums and the like seems to be the way of the future. But I'm still not reaching my target audience. I've tried signage on my vehicles, bootleg street signage listing my services, spinner signage on busy street-corners, Direct Mail, Pennysaver ads, every free listing I can find on the internet and many paid listings on specialized Notary Listings that are internet based.

I'm still determined to get to these escrow folks hiding in cubicles and offices behind this receptionist.

Any suggestions?

"A Quick Note"

www.aquicknote.net

Mayday!! Mayday!! I've lost all communication here in the O.C....[cuz I'm a native Californian?]

Shannon Ziccardi ("A Quick Note") — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 21:04:39 -0500

Does anyone know? Did California split off into the Pacific Ocean during an earthquake sometime and nobody told me?

Is there really oceanfront property in Arizona now?

Something must have happened.

Telephones have stopped ringing...and Loan Officers have all vanished.

Mortgage Processors have forgotten how to use email...

Escrow officers, if they are still working, are doing it without their seven assistants [it's a world gone mad!]...

Lenders have stopped lending so,... borrowers have stopped borrowing...[imagine!]

All forms of communication have stopped working...perhaps the gamma rays from the sun have melted all the sattelites and cell-phone towers...that MUST be it!

I'm an Experienced, Professional Notary Signing Agent and I personally service all of Southern California as well as providing signing services nationwide through my own database of notaries.

Please prove me wrong by contacting me via email...

let me know that you are out there...I haven't given up hope!!

Next communication, morse code?

"A Quick Note"