PohlmanUSA Takes Time With Local Court Reporting Students

Today I was given the opportunity to listen as Nancy Varallo, President of the National Court Reporting Association (NCRA), and her husband Ed Varallo, 6 time NCRA Speed Champion, spoke to students about the court reporting profession. This outreach program was part of PohlmanUSA’s effort to promote the court reporting profession and provide an opportunity for current and prospective court reporting students to hear from others some of the tricks of the trade. After an introduction from PohlmanUSA President, Vicki Pohlman, Nancy and Ed Varallo gave an inspiring presentation on how they began as court reporters and held a Q & A session.

Nancy and Ed also spoke to the attendees on various topics including their tips on starting out in court reporting. Some of the key takeaways that every court reporter can benefit from were: to take baby steps when trying to increase your speed; to keep pushing yourself to improve; to proofread your steno with a red pen to analyze errors; practice concentration; don’t spend too much time each day practicing; don’t practice more than 10 WPM above your current speed; and always be professional in the field and on interviews.

After the Q & A session the day was capped off with a reception and networking event at PohlmanUSA headquarters in St. Louis, MO.