Debt collection calls should be non-threatening and not cause the debtor to feel intimidated. Instead, try to make the debtor feel an urgency to settle the bill and the benefits of settling the account. This approach is essential if you want to retain your customers. It is also beneficial to make regular collection calls to maintain a positive relationship with the debtor. This will make the debtor feel better about the process of receiving debt collection calls. (Also Read: 5 Ways to Obtain Funding for a New Business)
How to transform debt collection into customer service?
Is it possible to negotiate work-out agreements to avoid debt harassment?
When should debt collectors be used?
If you are unsure about a debt collector, you can always ask them to send you a validation letter. This letter will prove that they are a legitimate company. In some cases, the debt collectors may not know that they have a legal right to contact you or that they have misrepresented or fraudulent information about you.
After you receive the debtor’s letter, you should tell the debt collector to stop contacting you. You should also request a copy of any correspondence that you have with the debt collector. If the debtor refuses to comply, you may be able to resolve the dispute.
It is illegal for debt collectors to harass or threaten you with jail time, property liens, or wage garnishment. If a debt collector calls you and says they will tell the Federal Consumer Protection Bureau about you, it’s time to file a complaint.
The best way to report a debt collector is to provide all relevant information. They should provide the amount of the debt, the date that the debt was paid, and any options for disputing the debt. The information must be provided in writing within five days. If the debtor refuses to provide the information, you can ask them to provide it in writing.
The federal government has implemented regulations for debt collectors, including new consumer protections. These new rules take effect on November 30, 2021.
How to optimize the debt collection process?
A digital collections software solution can help you collect past customers faster. These tools will give you more time to reach past customers and can provide incentives for them to pay. If you’re a small business, you can consider using a digital debt collection service, like Lexop, to reach past customers.
What other ways can be used?
You should consider segmenting customers according to priority. Debt collection for small businesses can become time-consuming and cumbersome if it is not organized. Prioritization helps you identify which customers need a higher level of attention, and you can create a more personalized strategy for each group. For instance, high priority defaulters can receive personal contact from a debt collection agent, while low priority defaulters can receive automated payment reminders. You can even set up your own categories and set rules for categorization.
In addition to this, you should also consider a number of payment options for each customer. It is crucial to provide flexibility to customers with various financial situations. It is important to offer multiple payment methods so that past-due customers can choose the method they prefer. Debt collection efforts can determine a company’s growth trajectory and future course.
When implementing a debt collection process, make sure that all customer-facing teams are involved. Include the sales team and the finance team, as they can shed light on the customer’s expectations and payment history. (Also Read: Why is small business important?)