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A collections representative handles overdue invoices, refunds, write-offs, and referrals to billing agencies. They need a high school diploma, computer skills, and two years of experience. A supervisory role may require a bachelor’s degree. Good decision-making, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills are necessary. Two or more years of experience are usually required, and entry-level jobs include billing clerk and billing representative roles.
A billing representative typically works in a company’s billing department and handles overdue invoices, refunds, write-offs, and referrals to billing agencies. He or she can work with clients, collection agencies, and attorneys to resolve delinquencies, create payment plans, and determine additional actions for severely delinquent accounts. Collections representatives can perform these tasks over the phone, via the Internet, or in person. To become a collections representative, you’ll need a high school diploma, general computer skills — including knowledge of word processing programs and spreadsheets — and two or more years of experience in a related role.
Most collection representation jobs only require a high school diploma. A supervisory role, such as a senior collections representative or collections supervisor, may require a bachelor’s degree in a field related to banking and finance. Experience using spreadsheet and word processing software is usually required to become a collections representative, and you can find classes online in these topics, at colleges and technical schools, and at some community centers. Training in other enterprise programs may be required if the enterprise uses a specific system to manage accounts. The company may provide training on the software or require you to know how to use it before starting work.
It takes excellent decision-making skills to become a collections representative. Many employers require you to make important decisions, such as negotiating with clients and deciding when an unpaid account should be placed in collections. Dealing with clients over the phone or in person requires excellent oral communication skills and the ability to make decisions under pressure. Collections representatives must also have solid organizational skills, be able to solve complex problems, be persuasive and comfortable using a computer for everyday tasks. If you plan on working over the phone, it also helps to be a good listener in a fast-paced environment.
Many employers require two or more years of experience to become a collections representative. They may allow this experience to be from any role within a company’s billing or billing department, or they may want direct experience as a billing representative. A college degree can also help, as some employers forgo a year or more of experience for having a related degree. Entry-level jobs that can help you gain the experience you need to become a collections representative include billing clerk, billing clerk, and billing representative roles.
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