Collection Agent

Remote

🚀 Administration

Typically, previous experience in customer service or in a call center is necessary to enter a Collection Agent career. Many employers have large teams of Collection Agents who hold positions of varying seniority. Entry-level positions usually require only 1 or 2 years of customer service experience. For senior roles that involve collecting large debts, supervising other agents or training new hires, 3-5 years of work history as a Collection Agent may be required.

What does a Collection Agent do?

A Collection Agent, or Account Collector, seeks overdue payments from customers. They make phone calls, establish payment plans and update customer records.

Responsibilities

A Collection Agent should be able to fulfill various duties and responsibilities. The following are some duties and responsibilities a Collection Agent should be able to execute:

Using computer software and databases to locate customers who have moved Discussing debts with customers and creating a payment plan that allows them to pay what they owe Collecting payments via credit card or direct debit via phone Negotiating settlements to accept a percentage of the debt Logging every contact attempt and the outcome of the contact Removing settled debts and deceased individuals from records Updating credit files when debts are satisfied Beginning legal proceedings, such as foreclosure or repossession, when debts can’t be settled

Required Skills

A competitive Collection Agent will have certain skills and qualifications, including:

• Proficiency in the use of database and debt collection software to update records and interpret payment information • Research skills to locate customers and track down errors that may have led to inaccurate reporting of debts • Conflict resolution and negotiation skills to overcome obstacles to collecting payment • Multitasking skills to move from one case to another • Written communication skills to keep detailed, simple-to-understand notes about contacts • Oral communication skills to interact professionally with customers and coworkers • Customer service skills to handle objections and deal with distressed individuals • Extensive knowledge of laws related to collections and codes of ethics for Collection Agents

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