Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Bank Debt Recovery: Effective Strategies Which Bolster Returns

By Darcel M. Jackson


Banking institutions are having more financial troubles in today's economy, and a growing number of charge-offs and delinquent credit accounts do nothing to aid the situation. Taking steps to implement sound lending policies helps, but most banks still find themselves pursuing collections.

A specific procedural outline can be used for most cases for successful pursuit of delinquent debt. In fact, some of the most common mistakes in bank debt recovery of defaulted loans and lines of credit can be avoided with a clear plan of action.

Putting off the internal bank debt recovery process too long will only harm the potential for recovering greater percentages of the debt owed. Contacting the debtor early allows you to be kinder and more congenial in your collection efforts, which aids in maintaining a better relationship with the client, therefore achieving greater success than with harsh demands.

The other advantage of early contact in bank debt recovery is getting ahead of the game. In most cases, an individual doesn't have just one delinquent account, which means other collectors will be vying for payment from the same debtor. Getting your bank debt recovery process started early assures you will be at the head of the line for payment.

This, however, is not the only mistake internal collections departments make. Often, a lack of frequent, continuous contact leads to a loss of bank debt recovery. Waiting too long between contact attempts opens the door for forgetfulness, as well as allows other collectors to make their calls and achieve their goals.

If you are calling clients with friendly reminders every three to four days, your results will improve based on continuous, diligent efforts and the building of a regular relationship with the client. Good attitudes go a long way in bank debt recovery.

The final problem facing most banks is a failure to follow up on promises. Just because a client claims they will make the negotiated payment doesn't mean it will come through, especially given multiple bank debt recovery efforts and a tendency to become busy and forgetful. Frequent follow-ups assure the payment doesn't slip the debtor's mind or fall through the cracks in payment efforts.

If the bank doesn't have the resources - including trained, qualified staff - to follow up on debt recovery efforts, greater success will be found through outsourcing collection efforts. Evaluating internal collection abilities can help to make the determination for the best bank debt recovery strategies.




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