Step-by-Step Plan for Unresponsive Clients

What should you do if your client has gone silent on an invoice?

Here’s a step-by-step plan businesses can follow, from initial follow-up to third-party escalation.

Step 1: Immediate Follow-Up and Reminder Sequence

• Pre-due reminder a few days before the payment date, reducing the chance of missed payments.
• First overdue reminder shortly after the due date, using polite and professional language, assuming oversight rather than bad intent.
• Set a regular follow-up schedule, e.g. weekly or bi-weekly reminders via email.
• Use different communication channels (e.g. email and phone) to improve the chance of reaching the right contact.

Step 2: Documentation and Tracking

• Log every attempt: date, communication channel, message, and response (or lack thereof).
• Review the original invoice structure for clarity, completeness, and whether it includes clear due dates, itemized services, and terms and conditions.

Step 3: Investigate and Engage the Client

At the second or third follow-up, consider a direct outreach attempt:

• Call the client and ask directly if they need the invoice re-sent, have concerns about the services, or if payment is delayed for internal reasons.
• If there is a dispute, invite them to discuss the issue.
• If cash-flow constraints are apparent, offer a structured payment, including due dates and consequences for missed payments.

Step 4: Third-Party Intervention and Collection

If internal collection efforts fail, engaging a professional third-party collector can become the next strategic step.

• A commercial debt collection partner brings industry expertise, knowledge of legal frameworks, and experienced negotiation.
• Engaging before an invoice becomes aged beyond several months will give you a better chance of recovering the full amount, as well as a chance to maintain the client relationship.

Learn more in our latest article.

Ready to Escalate? We can Help with Commercial Debt Collection

Want to learn more or initiate the collection process? RSD is ready to help you recover what’s owed efficiently and professionally. Contact our friendly experts at (248) 370-8160 or by submitting a contact form.

Understanding Why a Client Goes Silent

Has your client gone silent on an invoice?

Silence on an invoice doesn't always mean bad faith. It can reflect a variety of underlying issues, including:

• Cash-flow issues or financial stress on the customer side.
• Invoice discrepancies or disputes, such as incorrect billing, missing line items, or unclear services rendered.
• Neglect, oversight, or poor internal tracking, especially if reminders were not systematically issued.
• Strategic delay or avoidance, including clients stretching payment terms intentionally.

Learn more in our latest article.

Ready to Escalate? We can Help with Commercial Debt Collection

Want to learn more or initiate the commercial debt collection process? RSD is ready to help you recover what’s owed efficiently and professionally. Contact our friendly experts at (248) 370-8160 or by submitting a contact form.

Advantages and Challenges for Emailing a Debtor

Is it best to call, text, or email your debtor?

Here is a list of advantages, challenges, and techniques for typing up an email to a debtor:

Advantages

• Detail-Oriented: Emails allow for more detailed explanations than texts, making them suitable for repayment plans and agreements.
• Record Keeping: Emails provide a clear, dated record of communication, which can be referenced later on.
• Flexibility: Debtors can read and respond to emails at their convenience, which can be less stressful than a phone call.

Challenges

• Delayed Responses: Debtors might take longer to respond to emails compared to texts or phone calls.
• Email Overload: Your email might get lost or go unnoticed if the debtor’s inbox is full.

Techniques

• Structured Approach: Use a clear structure with headings and bullet points to make the email easy to read.
• Include Documentation: Attach relevant documents to support your negotiation.
• Professional Tone: Use a formal and respectful tone throughout the email. Avoid using jargon that the debtor might not understand.

Read about the best practices for contacting debtors in our latest article.

Having Trouble Collecting B2B Debt?

If you’re running into issues communicating with a debtor, a business debt collection agency like RSD can take the reins! To learn more about how the process works, check out the RSD 90-Day Collection Process. To get started with a claim, call (248) 370-8160 or submit a contact form here.

Advantages and Challenges of Calling a Debtor

Is it best to call, text, or email your debtor?

Here is a list of advantages, challenges, and techniques for picking up the phone and calling a debtor:

Advantages

• Immediate Interaction: Phone calls allow for real-time communication, which means you can address problems on the spot.
• Personal Touch: Speaking directly can help build trust, making it easier to negotiate your terms.
• Clarity: Talking on the phone reduces the risk of the debtor misinterpreting.

Challenges

• Unavailability: Debtors may not always be available or willing to take a call.
• Emotional Responses: Direct conversation can sometimes lead to heightened emotions, which can make it harder to find a solution.

Techniques

• Preparation: Before making the call, gather all the information about the debtor’s account you have.
• Active Listening: Pay attention to the debtor’s concerns and financial situation. This shows empathy and helps craft a solution that works for both parties.
• Stay Professional and Patient: Make sure you stay calm and professional, even if the debtor gets upset. Patience and understanding can lead to a more productive conversation.
• Offer Solutions: Be prepared to offer flexible repayment plans or settlements that might make it easier for the debtor to pay you back.

Read about the best practices for contacting debtors in our latest article.

Having Trouble Collecting B2B Debt?

If you’re running into issues communicating with a debtor, a business debt collection agency like RSD can take the reins! To learn more about how the process works, check out the RSD 90-Day Collection Process. To get started with a claim, call (248) 370-8160 or submit a contact form here.

Myths About Debt Collectors - Part 2

Have you heard only bad things about debt collectors?

If you’ve only heard that collectors are heartless sharks, then you haven’t heard about debt collectors who are good at their job. There may be heartless collectors out there, but on the whole, people in the collection business are nothing like the cold rumors you may have seen online. 

In our last blog, we talked about two myths about debt collectors. Here are two more myths and why they’re incorrect:

Debt Collectors Resort to Threats and Harassment

Ethical debt collectors operate within the bounds of the law and professional standards, which strictly prohibit threats, harassment, or abusive behavior towards debtors. Maintaining a respectful and professional demeanor is not only required by regulations like the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) but also crucial for good communication and resolving debts amicably.

Debt Collectors Have Unlimited Power to Collect Debts

While collectors have a duty to pursue debts owed to creditors, their authority is not limitless. Debt collectors must operate within the confines of the law. This includes respecting debtors' rights, such as the right to dispute debts, request validation, or seek assistance from consumer protection agencies.

Have Questions about Credit Collection Services?

Don’t be afraid to talk to a debt collector!

If you have questions about any credit collection services, our B2B collection experts are more than happy to chat. To get in touch, call (248) 370-8160 or submit a contact form here.

Myths About Debt Collectors - Part 1

What comes to mind when you think of a debt collector?

It’s possible that you’ve only heard bad things about debt collectors. Here’s why you should change the way you think about people in collections:

Debt Collectors Enjoy Making People's Lives Difficult

Contrary to popular belief, debt collectors are not motivated by a desire to make people's lives difficult. The primary goal is to recover outstanding debts for clients while adhering to legal and ethical guidelines. They understand that financial difficulties can arise for various reasons, and our aim is to work with debtors to find mutually beneficial solutions whenever possible.

Debt Collectors Are Unsympathetic

While debt collectors must follow certain procedures and regulations, it doesn't mean they lack empathy. Good debt collectors recognize that each debtor's situation is unique and are often willing to explore alternative payment arrangements that take this into account. The ultimate objective is to find a resolution that satisfies both the creditor and the debtor.

Have Questions about Credit Collection Services?

Don’t be afraid to talk to a debt collector!

If you have questions about any credit collection services, our B2B collection experts are more than happy to chat. To get in touch, call (248) 370-8160 or submit a contact form here.

Assessing Creditworthiness

How do you know if a potential customer is creditworthy?

Before working with a customer, examine the company’s:

• History – How long have they been in business? Do they have a good reputation in your industry?
• Future – Does their future seem strong? How does the future of their industry look? 
• Financial Health – Balance sheets and income statements can illuminate potential problems.
  

How can you discover this information before the company becomes a client? RSD can help you receive an Experian business credit report to see their financial health. For more information, RSD can work with several investigative resources to provide background checks, asset searches, bank account verifications, and many other kinds of investigative data.

Learn best credit risk management practices on our website!

Credit Collection Services in and Around Wyoming, MI

Credit collection services can include more than just debt collection!

RSD provides credit collection services near Wyoming, MI that include credit investigations, portfolio liquidation, credit policy creation, and can act as your legal liaison for litigation or settlements.

Contact RSD today to get started!

Best Credit Risk Management Practices

Do too many of your customers become debtors?

Are you tired of late payments?

Strengthening your credit risk management system can help. This system helps you sell on credit while maintaining cash flow, promoting financial health, and reducing late or non-payments.

Don’t Extend Credit without a Credit Application

Regardless of a customer’s size or reputation, don’t take a risk! A credit application can help determine creditworthiness while also compiling the company’s data that you may need if they decide to not pay. Include your credit and payment terms in the application to ensure the customer knows your expectations.

Partner with a Debt Collector

At the first sign of non-payment, file a claim with your partnered debt collector. The debt collection professionals at Ross, Stuart & Dawson can do the work for you, so you can relax and continue growing your company!

Learn more best practices on our website!

Credit Collection Services in and Around Wyoming, MI

Credit collection services can include more than just debt collection!

RSD provides credit collection services near Wyoming, MI that include credit investigations, portfolio liquidation, credit policy creation, and can act as your legal liaison for litigation or settlements.

Contact RSD today to get started!

How to Work with Your Collection Agency

How can you and your collection agency work together?

1. Having placed the account for collection, rely on the experience, diligence, and judgment of your collection service for the best and quickest results. Promptly refer any developments on these assigned accounts to the collector. 
2. Since professional collectors’ services are personal in nature - with the debtor as well as with you- see that your collector is fully acquainted with the nature of the goods or services involved. This helps the collector handle the many complex situations that arise during collection. In addition, the collection service should be given a fair understanding of your accounting system so that the collectors can maintain mutually acceptable records and keep books in balance with yours. The better the collector knows your individual requirements and specialized field, the more fully they can serve you. The relationship can be mutually profitable.
   

Learn how to maximize your return.

Get Paid with Credit Collection Services in Michigan

Are you ready to maximize your return?

Ross, Stuart & Dawson can help! We’ve been collecting with empathy and kindness for over four decades. We can help retain your relationship with your debtor as well as help you achieve the best return.

For credit collection services in Michigan, contact RSD today!

How to Maximize Your Returns from a Collection Agency

Do you struggle with nonpayment?

Considering using credit collection services in Michigan?

There are four steps you can follow to maximize your returns:

1. Post in your credit office the 10 situations that require prompt collection agency attention.
2. List collection agency accounts on special listing forms. The more information about the debtor means more collections. In all cases, the minimum information should be the correct name, address and telephone number of the debtor company; whether mail has been returned; contact name and email address address/phone number; trade references (important in the order stated); if there is a dispute, a summary of the facts; and date of last transaction (whether it is a charge, cash credit or adjustment). 

Check out steps 3-4 on our website!

Get Paid with Credit Collection Services in Michigan

Are you ready to maximize your return?

Ross, Stuart & Dawson can help! We’ve been collecting with empathy and kindness for over four decades.  We can help retain your relationship with your debtor as well as help you achieve the best return.

What’s most important to you is also important to us! Every one of our cases gets dedicated, personal attention, whether your claim is big or small. 

For credit collection services in Michigan, contact RSD today!

Why Media Industry Collection is Unique

 Already used an advertisement, but the advertiser won’t pay?

Want to find a solution?

For many companies, advertising is crucial to making a profit. Understanding and engaging in the media industry allows them to get their message to the right audience. At RSD, we know your job depends on timely payments from these advertisers. When they don’t pay, it can stall progress in your fast-paced industry.

All industries have their own intricacies when it comes to collecting. For the media industry, debtors can use poor ad performance as a way to escape payment and media companies will often write off this debt.

Sometimes poor advertising created by your debtor doesn’t perform as well as they had hoped and they’ll blame you, the media company, then leverage their unhappiness as a reason to not pay. We can communicate and negotiate with these debtors to collect as quickly as possible, so you can get back to producing and delivering content to your audience. We communicate with a professional yet kind approach that won’t compromise your relationship with the debtor and can decrease their chance of switching media companies.

Many debts in the media field are unsecured debts, so the debtor may think there are no consequences for non-payment. Rather than use precious time to chase down debtors, it’s common for media companies to write off debt and move on. RSD can take on your debtors while you work to put well deserved money in your bank account.

To learn more about media collection, visit our website!

Keep producing content with RSD’s credit collection services

Want to clear your overdue accounts?

At Ross, Stuart & Dawson, we work with you to not only to get you the money you deserve, but to improve your business. We strive to increase your cash flow, minimize the risk of selling on credit, and support your long-term growth.

We turn past promises into present payments! To benefit from our credit & collection services, call RSD today at 888-701-8181 or contact us to discuss your company’s unique needs.

What Can Credit & Collection Services do for Media Companies?

 Are debtors interfering with your daily activities?

Want to prevent overdue accounts?

At Ross, Stuart & Dawson, we understand advertising is crucial to making a profit in the media industry. When advertisers don’t pay, it can stall progress in your fast paced line of work.

Other than collecting, there are credit collection services that can decrease your credit risk, such as strengthening your credit risk management system and investigating advertisers.

Our staff understands the intricacies of media industry debt collection and knows how your industry operates. With this knowledge, we can inspect your business and find areas to strengthen your credit risk management system. A strong credit risk management system can minimize risk, expand sales safely, and increase the profitability of each of your clients. 

Before determining an advertiser’s credit trustworthiness based on financial numbers alone, investigate with RSD. We work with several investigative resources that can provide background checks, asset searches, and bank account verifications that can tell the true story of the client’s credit history.

For more helpful credit & collection services for the media industry, visit our website!

Keep producing content with RSD’s credit collection services

Want to clear your overdue accounts?

At Ross, Stuart & Dawson, we work with you to not only to get you the money you deserve, but to improve your business. We strive to increase your cash flow, minimize the risk of selling on credit, and support your long-term growth.

We turn past promises into present payments! To benefit from our credit & collection services, call RSD today at 888-701-8181 or contact us to discuss your company’s unique needs.

Don’t Wait Too Long to Collect!

According to Michigan debt collection laws, “for most collection actions, there is a specific period of time during which a creditor may pursue the collection of a debt. In Michigan, the filing of a breach of contract and/or open account action, for default of a credit card agreement, for example, must be done within the 6-year Statute of Limitations. MCL §600.5807(8). The relevant date for determining when the six-year Statute of Limitations begins to run is the date of the last activity on the account, whether it be a purchase or a payment made.”

Learn about other steps you can take to improve your collection strategies here.

Debt Collection Agency in Michigan Works to Get You What You’re Owed!

What’s most important to you is also important to us! Every one of our cases gets dedicated, personal attention, whether your claim is big or small.

Business owners should be spending time doing what they are good at, not chasing down debts. Contact our experienced debt collection agency today at (248) 370-8160 to get started. Let the experts worry about your collections, so you have more time to focus on growing your business!