The “Getting to Know” series is sponsored by Applied Innovation. Applied Innovation is helping to shape the future of accounts receivable management. Product development is driven by customer feedback, agency profitability and compliance and includes platforms addressing client portal access, document management, payment negotiation, Regulation E focused electronic payment authorizations and TCPA communication authorization platforms. Partner with a company who understands your business challenges and evolves to provide cutting edge technology to overcome those challenges and achieve success.
One of the great benefits of working in the accounts receivable management industry is the willingness to collaborate, the understanding that a rising tide lifts all boats. Perhaps nobody appreciates that — and embodies it — more than Debbie Frank. Helping you become better faster is more than just a goal for Debbie, it’s a way of life. Read on to learn more about Debbie, why buying the shoes is always the best decision, and why you shouldn’t be afraid of being afraid.
Name: Debbie Frank
Current Role/Job Title: Owner/CEO
Company: Credit Bureau Services
Length of time at current company: 11 years
Length of time in industry: 19 years
How did you get your start in the industry?
I started my working career in the collection industry as a data entry clerk, and what I didn’t know was my former boss had plans for me to be the manager over his agency. But first he wanted to see what my work ethic was like, and how well I could communicate and get along with people. After working six months in data entry, he moved me into management.
What is your career highlight so far?
One of my career highlights in the industry has been receiving an award by Receivable Advisor magazine, as being one of the top 25 most innovative agencies in the industry. Another highlight of my career has been serving as ACA’s Financial Literacy chairperson, working alongside the committee in revamping Ask Doctor Debt website and it is now referred to as KnowMyDebt.com. Check it out, it is really cool!
When or how are you most productive?
Early morning before going to work, I like to read and spend time writing in my journal. Then I would say I am most productive at work, right after lunch. After arriving at work, it’s meetings, phone calls and emails. Then in the early afternoon I am more focused on the tasks at hand.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
Mark Neeb. When he became ACA’s CEO, he did the job with such grace and professionalism, and he made it seem like it was easy. Creating the slogan Helping Members Succeed, speaks volumes for the type of leader he truly is.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
I asked my team this question and they said, motivating people. I am good at keeping the team engaged on task and motivated to get the job done.
What do you like most about this industry?
What I value most about this industry is the peer-to-peer support and friendship there is in this industry. People working in this industry lend you their support and share their ideas, and help you become better faster.
The Getting to Know Series is Sponsored By:
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
Consumer perception that debt collections is bad and that the people in it are bad people. When you talk to people about money, I would say we are doing work that matters!
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
Attorney.
Describe a typical work day.
When you are a business owner your work is with you twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. For me, my day starts at the office at 8:30 a.m. with reviewing reports, and I have a set time to read and answer emails, along with returning phone calls. Early afternoon is when I work on tasks and projects, and I end the day at the office by 6:00 p.m.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Life is too short, buy the shoes.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
A friend of mine, gave me a book by Joyce Meyers titled, “Do It Afraid“. Being a business owner in the collection industry, there are a whole lot of times you must do things afraid. The book talks about putting your trust in God, and he will calm your fears because it’s only a season you’re going through. Just do it Afraid!
What are you currently reading?
“Never Eat Alone” by Keith Ferrazzi. He has great advice and techniques on how to reach out and connect with people and have them be a part of your network. Interesting thing he says in the book, we are only five connections away from connecting to the President of the United States.
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
I am a creative and innovative thinker. I love group discussion and collaboration when it comes to problem solving.
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Ranjan Dharmaraja
The “Getting to Know” series is sponsored by Applied Innovation. Applied Innovation is helping to shape the future of accounts receivable management. Product development is driven by customer feedback, agency profitability and compliance and includes platforms addressing client portal access, document management, payment negotiation, Regulation E focused electronic payment authorizations and TCPA communication authorization platforms. Partner with a company who understands your business challenges and evolves to provide cutting edge technology to overcome those challenges and achieve success