Defeating Collectors By "Playing Teacher"

Bill collectors love to use the phone. They harass, berate, insult, and threaten.

What happens if you take control of the call?


One way to do it is here.


Here's another. Correct every mistake they make. This will throw them off their script.


you: Hello?


them: I'm looking for, er, Mr. Jack Maginty?


you: Would you mean Mr. Jack MacInty by some chance?


them: Er, yes.


you: Go on.


them: And you're at 1324 Park Street?


you: You don't know?


them: I'm just trying to verify.


you: Well, you are not doing a very good job.


them: Is that your address?


you: Yes, but it is Park Lane. Make sure you get it right next time.


them: OK.


you: Well, what do you want?


them: Er, I'm calling about a bill…


you: What's this "er" all the time?


them: Sorry, I'm calling about this bill.


you [interrupting]: Bill, what bill?


them: The bill with XYZ Wireless.


you: I'll need more information, and be prompt, my time is valuable.


them: Well, it says here you owe $268.47.


you: Says here, where's "here?"


them: Well, in our computer.


you: Is your well dry or something?


them: Huh?


you: Don't "huh" me, why are you talking about wells?


them: Listen, we need to talk about this bill.


you: No, you listen, YOU need to get, and keep your facts straight. By the way, did you even finish high school?


them: That's none of your business.


you: Oh, but it is. I think this is a scam. I think I ought to file a police report. What's your name, and what company are you with?


them: Errrrr


you: Once again, I'm tired of this "errr" be professional or stop bothering me.


them: I can report you as noncooperative.


you: And I can report YOU as being a scam artist. Good bye.


[click]


If the collection agency breaks the law by not sending you something in writing, you can take them to court for damages.


If they do send you something in writing, you MUST follow up with a debt validation letter. A sample, that has worked, is available for FREE here!


The main idea, though, is to take control of the conversation and beat them at their own game. No matter what they say, correct them. Only seasoned collectors will be able to adapt. Only seasoned collectors will be immune to mild insults such as the high school comments. Don't get too nasty or it will escalate into a name calling match, and you will probably lose. Just do enough to throw them off.


If they think you're going to be difficult, they may move on to easier accounts.