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The process should include the following:
- A detailed ageing summary of account: for all debtors with an open balance, Accounts Receivable will generate monthly statements of outstanding accounts (with individual invoice information and days outstanding) and issue them systematically to debtors at month-end. The statements must be checked for accuracy and there shouldn’t be any unallocated payments.
- When 30 days credit is granted, standard Reminder delays recommended by Accor Corporate Credit Management are as follows:
25 days after invoice 1st telephone call (courtesy call)
35 days after invoice 1st reminder letter (Credit Manager)
40 days after invoice 2nd telephone call
45 days after invoice 2nd reminder letter (Director of Finance)
50 days after invoice 3rd telephone call (GM)
60 days after invoice 3rd letter (GM)
75 days after invoice Final letter and case passed to debt collector
If the hotel grants different credit terms, these reminder can be amended accordingly.
1.4 Telephone communication will often speed up the collection process. When speaking with a delinquent account, a few tips should be observed:
- Identify yourself and the hotel and state the reason for calling. Be direct and use a controlled, confident
Voice. Concentrate on listening to the customer and don’t rush through the call.
- Get the facts: try to gain as much insight into the situation as possible.
- Never argue, accuse or be condescending. The ultimate purpose is to secure payment and this is best accomplished without becoming defensive or irritated.
- There are several common objections, complaints and excuses used to elude payment:
. I didn’t get the invoice : respond by verifying the debtors’ name and address, and then review the account information with them
. The cheque is in the mail : extend your thanks, then ask for a cheque number, amount, date posted and address to which it was mailed
. Your payment is being processed : ask when the payment will be ready for the mail. Determine the process that the payment undergoes after it leaves your contact’s desk
. I have no money : create a payment plan. Work toward making the plan acceptable for both parties