What tactics are best to use when collecting debts

If you already work within the debt collection industry, you will know how difficult it can be to collect debts. There are some occasions where people will be able to pay off their debts, but there will also be occasions where people cannot pay off their debts or simply don’t want to pay off their debts. To be a successful debt collector, you will need to implement various tactics and techniques to get the best results. Each collection will be different, from personal circumstances to business operations; no day will be the same. That’s why it’s essential to have other techniques for different types of debtors. Adapting an approach will improve the chances of securing a debt for a client. 

Nibbling is a technique that’s often used when collecting debts, and in simple terms, it means taking small items but lots of them. This could be smaller but more frequent payments of money, or it could be taking a small number of belongings, rather than one large ticket item. Debtors are more likely to be able to part with small items or small amounts of money than large sums. Smaller requests are more comfortable to process, so a debtor is likely to be able to manage the requests. For example, a payment plan for small, but frequent payments will likely be far more affordable with the debtor, and debtee will be able to recoup far more of the debt. So, is nibbling a good tactic to use? Well, yes. It’s often better for everyone involved in the debt collection process. When a debt collector uses the nibbling tactic, a debt collector will likely collect more of the debt in each visit. This is good for the debtor as they don’t have to lose their most expensive items or large sums of money, and it shows the debtee they’re willing to cooperate, but it’s also great for a debt collector who doesn’t return empty-handed. 

Be polite but stern. This is something debt collectors might not always remember. Collecting debts can be incredibly frustrating at times, especially if a debtor isn’t cooperating. However, it’s crucial to stay polite, as you don’t want to make the situation worse. An angry or aggressive attitude could make the debtor feel attacked, and they could stop cooperating altogether, or worse, turn aggressive themselves. However, it is also important to be stern so that the debtor understands the case’s severity. The best way to portray this sternness is to clearly explain the debt collection process and explain what will happen in this meeting. If a debtor is beginning to react to your tone, this is where the nibbling technique would come in useful. It shows that you are willing to negotiate and cooperate, and it can usually resolve some of the tension. 

Using all channels of communication is another great tactic for collecting debts. Letters, phone calls, emails, and face-to-face meets will improve the chances of recouping any debts. These communication methods show a debtor that you’re serious about collecting the debts, but it also keeps them in the loop about the collection process, so they are more likely to cooperate, as they don’t feel as though this demand for money is being sprung upon them. This also allows for collectors to know their debtors’ situation so they can seek the best resolution for the debt. This constant communication also allows for a record of any and all payments towards the debt, which is excellent when a debt collector needs to negotiate. As a debt collector, you will also see any outstanding charges that can also come in useful. 

Nibbling is probably one of the most useful tactics for debt collection, but of course, every scenario will be different, so adapting different techniques is the best way to resolve debt problems.