As part of my mini-series on becoming a courthouse researcher, I have interviewed several research companies in hopes of helping my readers get a better feel for each company, and understand more about the industry. If you haven’t been reading my blog long (shame on you!) and have never heard of courthouse research before, then make sure to start reading at the beginning. Otherwise, read on!
Today I wanted to talk about Sunlark Research. This is the company that I actually worked for, when I was a courthouse researcher. I have nothing but the best to say about the company, and everyone else that I have met who have also worked for Sunlark say the same thing. I can personally verify that Sunlark is a legitimate company that pays well, and pays on time. I asked for an interview with Lark, the owner of the company, and she was kind enough to grant me one. Because it is so long, I have broken the interview up into several blogs. The other blogs will be posted throughout today and tomorrow, so make sure to check back later!
Me: What gave you the idea to start a courthouse research company? How did Sunlark Research come into being?
Lark: First of all, thank you, Havs, for taking the time to write about court research and to interview me as well as some of my peers in this field.
For me, it all started when I became a mortgage life insurance agent and was asked if I wanted to help generate my own leads. Surprisingly, on my very first trip to the county recorder’s office, I found myself having thoughts of training others in how to do the work. (Even though I had to call the data research manager 3 times with questions!) For about a month, I just ran from county to county collecting, finding that it was very reasonable work for the pay-especially for someone as fiercely independent as I am. Then one day, I was hit with the notion to ask if I could subcontract. I was actually surprised when they said yes. Immediately, I shifted my focus to hiring and training independent researchers throughout the country—and I haven’t looked back!
Me: Do you offer training to your new employees? How long does the training take to complete? Is the training paid?
Lark: First, I only have two employees who work in administration. Everyone else is an independent researcher. Our researcher training consists of materials we generally make available through our website along with access to a manager and/or program specialist to answer questions. Training generally takes a few hours per project type—some are faster. Since our researchers are independent contractors, training is not directly reimbursed, but you are paid from the first record collected. Many researchers pick up speed very quickly to where they soon are making a very good rate per hour.
For part two, please click here.