Creating an Impeccable Impression

As court reporters, we are professionals in the legal arena and are tasked with creating an impeccable impression from the moment we’re assigned a job until the transcript is delivered.  Here are a few tips for making an impeccable impression:

1)      If not provided automatically, ask for any and all advance information, such as a notice, word lists or prior transcripts.
2)      Listen to local traffic reports and adjust your departure time accordingly, arriving no less than 30 minutes prior to a non-realtime deposition, and 60 minutes prior to a realtime job.
3)      Dress professionally and go over the “must-have” list before you walk out the door.
4)      No matter the type of day you’re having, arrive wearing a smile, make direct eye contact, introduce yourself, provide counsel with your business card and ask for theirs.
5)      Use careful discretion in your communication and demeanor with counsel with whom you are familiar so as not to demonstrate partiality or friendship.
6)      To assist counsel in maintaining the smooth flow of testimony, ask if there is a preference for pre-marking exhibits or creating exhibit labels prior to going on the record.
7)      Save no less than 10 minutes to practice so that you’re warmed up, accurate and fast out of the gate.
8)      Use extreme discretion when interrupting the proceeding.
9)      Ascertain and confirm disposition of exhibits, particularly confidential documents entrusted to your care.
10)   Ensure timely delivery of every assignment by planning ahead for scoping and/or proofing work based upon that job’s due date.

Making an impeccable impression is simply not an option in today’s competitive business world.­­­­­­