eNews Archive

The initial investigation into a potential customer’s credit worthiness is an essential step in the credit approval process, singlehandedly signifying the profession’s central goal: extending the right amount of credit that creates profit without introducing too much risk. While many credit managers are used to poring over a customer’s financial statements during this stage, many might not be analyzing as deeply as they could, unintentionally taking on more risk than intended.  

The ability to lead exists in all of us. You don’t need a title to make an impact—it’s about how you show up. But what sets great leaders apart from average ones? Over the past year, we’ve navigated economic uncertainty, from supply chain disruptions to looming trade war threats. During times like these, teams are looking to their leaders for direction.  

As a leader in the credit profession, your days can feel extremely fast-paced and filled with so many decisions. However, leadership isn’t just about managing accounts and deadlines—it’s also about staying connected to your team. In the rush of daily responsibilities, one of the most valuable tools a leader can use is often overlooked: feedback from the people they work with. 

In the high-stakes world of construction, securing timely payment is both critical and notoriously challenging for material suppliers, where delayed funds can jeopardize entire operations. To avoid these pitfalls, credit professionals can enforce their lien and bond rights on a project. 

A recent contraction in the United States’ gross domestic product (GDP) is raising concerns for economists and credit managers as an early sign of recession. Meanwhile, inflationary pressures continue to weaken consumer sentiment, further contributing to a decline in market wealth. 

New technology reshapes the business credit profession, as each innovation reframes the work of a credit manager by automating everyday tasks. Unfortunately, just as technology can transform a credit manager’s work, it can give rise to creative ways for fraudsters to take advantage of businesses.  

Credit managers are no strangers to change, with economies always fluctuating and markets changing at the drop of a hat. When it comes to the value of the U.S. Dollar, fluctuation can be more complex and create complications in international trade, leaving credit managers at odds with their customers overseas. 

Credit professionals are often focused on supporting others—customers, colleagues and businesses—but they can sometimes forget to take time to care for themselves. In today’s shaky economy, many are facing growing challenges, which can lead to stress and a need for self-care.