Question for professionals: When people call to collect money from your office, what are some things you hate?

Question

I currently hold a postion where I have to make collection calls to mortgage companies. I have some experience with collections from my past jobs but this one involves more collection work.

I've have several ways I've sent them invoices such as: faxed letters, phone calls, and e-mails.

In your personal opinion, what method would make you respond the best? I do not plan to be abrasive to people, but we want to be paid. What can I do maintain professionalism and still inquire about the invoice? Tell me your experiences or methods.

Thank you for your time!

Answer 1

On just about every job I've had, I make the collections calls (even though I'm on the creative side of things, not the business side) because I always get our money.

I always take the nice route. As things progress, I present it almost like I'm sad that we haven't been paid. Like how parents act disappointed in a child. People don't want to let someone down, so they pay.

When they start avoiding my calls (caller id), I start using my personal cell phone. They always answer and I tell them that our phones were temporarily out at the office.

I would be friendly at first, but then you have to escalate the firm/disappointed tone in your voice/message/email.

I don't think I've ever had anyone get really angry at me using this method, and I've only had to send someone to collections once in many years.

My daughter just started a job where she gets ten percent of everything she collects. I'm SO jealous.

Good luck

Answer 2

call them, if they don't respond whithin a week, send them a letter by mail. Mail by post is usually considered more urgent and important than fax/email.

Answer 3

Be pleasant but call often. The squeaky wheel gets the grease! Remember that it is not always the person's fault you might not be getting paid, they might not be getting paid either.

I don't envy you!