What is Collection Call Preparation?

Collection Call Preparation

Collection call preparation refers to the process of gathering and organizing relevant information and documents before making a phone call to a debtor with the aim of collecting an outstanding debt. This preparation is essential for collection agents or representatives to ensure that they have a clear understanding of the debtor’s situation, the outstanding balance, payment history, and any previous communication regarding the debt. Proper preparation enables the collection agent to have a more effective conversation with the debtor and increases the likelihood of successfully recovering the debt.

Steps involved in collection call preparation may include:

1. Reviewing the debtor’s account: Collection agents should familiarize themselves with the debtor’s account details, including the outstanding balance, due dates, payment history, and any late fees or penalties.
2. Understanding the debt: Collection agents should have a clear understanding of the nature of the debt, the original creditor, and any relevant terms and conditions associated with the debt, such as interest rates or grace periods.
3. Gathering previous communication: Collection agents should review any previous communication between the debtor and the creditor or collection agency, including letters, emails, or phone call transcripts, to understand the debtor’s perspective and any prior commitments or arrangements.
4. Preparing a script or talking points: It is helpful for collection agents to have a script or key talking points ready to guide the conversation with the debtor, ensuring that they cover all necessary information and remain compliant with debt collection laws and regulations.
5. Setting a clear objective: Collection agents should have a clear objective for the call, such as negotiating a repayment plan, securing a commitment to pay, or gathering additional information about the debtor’s financial situation.
6. Familiarizing oneself with applicable laws: Collection agents must adhere to the laws and regulations governing debt collection practices, such as the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) in the United States. It is crucial for agents to understand these rules to avoid engaging in any prohibited practices during the call.

Proper collection call preparation allows collection agents to communicate more effectively with debtors, increasing the chances of successfully recovering the outstanding debt while maintaining compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Example of Collection Call Preparation

Let’s take a look at an example of collection call preparation:

Mike is a collection agent working for XYZ Collection Agency, which has been hired by a medical clinic to collect an unpaid debt of $1,500 from a patient, Sarah. Before making a collection call to Sarah, Mike needs to prepare himself by following these steps:

1. Reviewing the debtor’s account: Mike reviews Sarah’s account details, including the outstanding balance of $1,500, the due date, which was 60 days ago, and her payment history. He notes that this is Sarah’s first missed payment.
2. Understanding the debt: Mike familiarizes himself with the nature of the debt, which is a medical bill from a recent clinic visit. He also checks the terms and conditions associated with the debt, such as any interest rates or late fees that may apply.
3. Gathering previous communication: Mike reviews the letters and emails that the medical clinic has sent to Sarah regarding the unpaid bill. He takes note of any concerns or questions Sarah raised in her responses.
4. Preparing a script or talking points: Mike prepares a script that outlines the key points he needs to cover during the call, such as confirming Sarah’s identity, informing her of the outstanding balance and due date, and discussing potential repayment options.
5. Setting a clear objective: Mike sets a clear objective for the call – to negotiate a repayment plan with Sarah that allows her to pay off the debt within a reasonable timeframe.
6. Familiarizing oneself with applicable laws: Mike reviews the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) guidelines to ensure he remains compliant with all relevant regulations during the call.

Once Mike has completed his collection call preparation, he proceeds to call Sarah. During the conversation, he follows his script and remains professional, courteous, and respectful. He listens to Sarah’s concerns and works with her to create a feasible repayment plan. By being well-prepared for the call, Mike increases the likelihood of successfully recovering the outstanding debt on behalf of the medical clinic.