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.
Maria Soria’s days at Gulf Coast Collection Bureau may all start the same, but they rarely ever end the same. The agency’s Training Specialist, Soria wears many hats, which allows her to put her relationship-building strengths to work. Read on to lear more about Maria, why she rarely lets opportunities or chances go by, and where you’re likely to find her every Friday night.
Name: Maria Soria
Current Role/Job Title: Training Specialist
Company: Gulf Coast Collection Bureau
Length of time at current company: 4 years
Length of time in industry: 4 years
How did you get your start in the industry?
After having my two babies, I was ready to go back to work and I never expected to change industries. Gulf Coast Collections offered me the schedule flexibility I needed at the time and the opportunity to use my professional experience. I started this career as a Professional Collections Specialist and then opportunities opened for me to train and coach.
What is your career highlight so far?
My career highlight is believing in myself and not being afraid of learning more. Being courageous to accept new challenges as opportunities to grow in this industry.
When or how are you most productive?
I am most productive when I have a plan. Having a clear vision of my expectations and priorities help me organize my days and weeks. I try to stay motivated throughout the day to complete the goals I have set for myself.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
Marie St James. Ever since I had the opportunity to move into a leadership role, she has mentored with knowledge and leadership skills to become who I am now. Marie has had a tremendous influence on me through her constant support, inspiration, and collaboration. It takes a very special person to wear the hats she does – mother, daughter, friend, Chief Operating Office, and the list goes on!
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
I am sure there are people out there who are better at everything than me. If I had to pick something, I would say the long-lasting influence I make in people’s lives because of the relationship I build with them. I pride myself on taking the time to get to know people and being vulnerable as a human to gain people’s trust.
What do you like most about this industry?
The opportunities that this industry has to offer.
The Getting to Know Series is Sponsored By:
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
The stigma from people who do not understand the value of debt collectors for our economy.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
I would probably be teaching. Maybe creating online courses to coach and mentor people.
Describe a typical work day
This is diverse. If I am not training, I am usually hiring or planning for continuous education. My day always starts with coffee and emails, but it is usually focused around employee development.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Friday nights of wine and conversations with my husband.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Take chances and opportunities, as some only come once, from my dad.
What are you currently reading?
Dare to lead by Brene Brown for the second time.
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
That I am from Ecuador. I moved to the USA to go to college when I was 18 years old. I am honored to call this country my home since then.
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Gabby Iglesia (Collections Manager)
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
