Collecting past due accounts requires a sixth-sense: knowing when and how hard to push. If you're too lenient, the client never pays. If you're too tough, the client may go into passive aggressive mode, and use your collection tactics as one more reason not to pay. This was a client who had worked with us at least twice before. He owed less than $500, but we didn't want to write it off. I kept my collection phone calls friendly, positioning them as reminders. The non-payer was traveling frequently, so that added complexity.
This mild e-mail finally generated payment in full.
8/10
Jamie,
Before you left town, you said you'd mailed a check for past services. We haven't seen your payment.
We're concerned that your check might be lost and cashed by someone else.
What would you like to do?
:B