A Year in Review

2008 is coming to a close, and, as you sit down and think about your resolutions for the New Year, it is also important to reflect on what you have accomplished in the previous year. Specifically, what have you done to increase your skills and market court reporter value in your county, city, and state?

Have you built relationships judges, court officials, and attorneys and advocated for the profession? As a court reporter, you are the best voice for the industry. On the other hand, always be aware that your actions and words can reflect on the profession as a whole.

Have you kept up with the latest technology? Being proficient in realtime can enhance the judicial system and your own marketability. Make a commitment to ensuring that you have the most up-to-date technology.

Are you certified? Being a certified court reporter will show to all that you are at the pinnacle of your profession. Even if you have some certifications, try for more. Writing realtime but not a CRR? Sit for the exam and see how you do. If your state is a non-certified state, check in with NCRA in order to find out more about what you can do to fight for mandatory certification.

Have you made continuing education a priority? Reporters should continually be updating their knowledge of the reporting profession. New technology is constantly emerging that increasingly enhances a reporter's ability to provide services to clients and consumers. Take advantage of that opportunity and learn about the next steps in reporting.

The best way to market yourself and your skills is to be proactive. The New Year offers new opportunities to highlight the services that reporters and captioners can provide. Make sure that one of your New Year's resolutions is to learn even more and do even more to improve as a court reporter and therefore improve the profession as a whole.