Tip: 10 Characteristics to Look for in a Credit Department Candidate

Finding the right people to staff your Credit Department is not an easy task. One thing every Credit Manager knows is each day is filled with challenges and pressure to meet objectives. A Credit Analyst, Collector, Deductions Analyst, or Cash Applier must have specific skills to accomplish what is assigned to them. With that said, there are common and essential characteristics any Credit Department staff member must have to be successful.

Each day there are new issues. Decisions must be made. Regardless of their role staffers are sometimes challenged by confrontational customers or internal stakeholders. There is the ongoing stress to meet objectives with limited time. Getting the job done under these difficult circumstances takes a specific type of individual. The importance of sourcing and hiring applicants cannot be overstated. Hiring the right people depends on an understanding of what it takes to be a Credit Department team member.

At the outset of the hiring process, you need to evaluate if an applicant will both fit your needs and help drive department success. Although specific skill requirements will vary by role, the following are ten characteristics you should look for in any new hire.

1. The mental and physical capacity to do the job:

• Has the basic skills needed for the role.
• Demonstrates the energy and stamina to put in the time required to meet objectives.
  

2. A strong work ethic:

• A strong desire to complete what is assigned to them and meet deadlines.

3. Professionalism:

• Projects a professional demeanor.
• Reacts responsibly when under stress.
• A willingness to collaborate when problem-solving.
• Able to handle confrontation effectively.
  

4. An acceptable attitude:

• A positive attitude.
• A demeanor that fits into your department's “culture.”
  

5. Listening skills: 

• Will listen to others before reaching a conclusion.

6. Curiosity:

• Eager to solve complex issues.
• Willing to accept training to learn new skills.
  

7. Creativity:

• Interested in finding new solutions to difficult issues.
• Able to take direction with minimal management intervention.
• Ability to adapt to change.
  

8. Communication skills:

• Demonstrates strong verbal and written skills.

9. Competitiveness:

• A strong desire to meet goals.

10. Team spirit:

• An ego left at the door.
• Cooperates with others to complete team objectives.
  

Watch our course on Hiring & Developing Top Credit Talent | Secrets Unlocked to learn key strategies to attract the right talent and develop a roadmap for long-term growth in the credit department.