Collections Specialist - B2B

The Collections Specialist - B2B at SunSource is responsible for managing customer accounts to collect outstanding balances. This role includes resolving invoice discrepancies by working with sales and customer service teams, investigating payment issues, and settling disputes. Additionally, you will collaborate with the Credit Analyst to compile data and deliver month-end reports, ensuring a smooth flow of financial information.

To qualify for the Collections Specialist - B2B position at SunSource, candidates are required to have a high school diploma or GED, while an associate degree in Accounting or a related field is preferred. Additionally, having at least one year of experience in collections or accounts receivable, knowledge of billing procedures, and familiarity with debt collection laws are crucial to succeed in this role.

A successful Collections Specialist - B2B at SunSource should possess strong communication skills, both verbal and written, to interact effectively with customers. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel for reporting, and attention to detail are important skills. A solid understanding of billing processes and collection techniques will also be beneficial.

As a Collections Specialist - B2B at SunSource, you are entitled to a wide range of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, short and long-term disability coverage, a 401(k) plan with company match, paid time off, and holidays. There’s also a tuition reimbursement program to help you advance your education!

SunSource is committed to employee development, providing opportunities for growth through tuition reimbursement and an Employee Assistance Plan. The company fosters a supportive environment where Collections Specialists - B2B can enhance their skills and advance in their careers within a leading industrial distribution firm.

When answering this question, outline your previous roles in accounts receivable, focusing on your responsibilities, techniques used for collecting payments, and how you resolved discrepancies. Share specific examples that highlight your problem-solving skills and success rates in your collections efforts.

In your response, discuss how you assess outstanding accounts by age and size to identify priority cases. Mention any tools or reports you rely on to categorize accounts and how you communicate with clients efficiently based on their payment behaviors.

When discussing negotiation techniques, emphasize your ability to maintain a respectful and positive tone while presenting flexible payment options. Highlight any specific successful negotiations you’ve handled and your approach to building rapport with clients during the process.

Share a specific example of a challenging customer interaction in your past experiences. Focus on how you remained calm and empathetic, listening actively to their concerns, and working collaboratively to find a solution that benefited both the company and the customer.

Mention the accounting and collections software you have used in your past roles, and discuss how you utilized these tools for tracking payments, generating reports, and communicating with clients. If applicable, mention any training you've undertaken to increase your proficiency with these systems.

Emphasize your commitment to staying informed on guidelines around debt collection by mentioning resources you utilize, such as industry newsletters, workshops, and legal seminars. Highlight the importance of adhering to these laws in your day-to-day procedures.

Talk about the strategies you’ve implemented in the past that have successfully improved collection rates, such as regular follow-ups, customer retention efforts, and analyzing patterns in payment behavior to tailor your approach.

Describe how you aim to create a professional yet approachable communication style, adapting your message to meet the needs of different clients. Provide examples of how your communication skills have helped you achieve successful outcomes in the past.

Discuss your approach to handling disputes, focusing on the importance of listening to the customer, investigating the issue thoroughly, and working towards a resolution that maintains client relations while ensuring company policies are respected.

Connect your career aspirations with the values and mission of SunSource. Highlight what excites you about the role and the company, such as its commitment to employee development and its reputation in the industry, creating a strong narrative for your interest.