A soft collector is a person who works for a collection agency that recoups debt for financial institutions. Soft collection is the process of warning debtors that they are delinquent on payments and their possessions will be recouped if payment is not made. In order to become a soft collector, you will need to graduate from high school or earn an equivalent qualification. Basic math skills and exceptional communication skills will be necessary if you want to become a soft collector, and computer training or exceptional computer skills will also be necessary.
You may not need to earn a college degree in order to become a soft collector, though you will improve your chances of securing employment by earning a post-secondary certificate, associate's degree, or bachelor's degree. Post-secondary training in communications, writing, business, accounting, math, or management will prepare you to become a soft collector by giving you the skills you will need for the job. You will need to be highly organized, and able to use appropriate computer programs for accounting, word processing, and data management. You can get computer training from a local community college if you do not feel confident in your skills .
You will need to create a resume and submit it to potential employers. Look into collection agencies and financial institutions that may be offering such positions. If you are hired and become a soft collector, you should expect to go through a lengthy training period, during which time you will learn the process of soft collection as well as the company policies that dictate your job functions. Training can last anywhere from a few months to a year, and it is likely that you will work with a more experienced soft collector during this time. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the business before you get hired so you know what to expect from the job.
Negotiation skills as well as superb communications skills will be necessary to be competitive in this job, so it may be a good idea to take some college courses in communications, public speaking, or languages. You will need to interact regularly with debtors, financial institutions, and other professionals in the industry on a daily basis, so it is important to be able to communicate complex information clearly and effectively. An ability to communicate with hostile debtors may be part of the job as well.
