eNews Archive

The U.S. Postal Service clarified in a Dec. 24, 2025 rule that postmarks reflect when mail is processed at a USPS facility—not when it’s dropped off, accepted at a counter or stamped in a mailroom. Why it matters: In many states, deadlines for filing mechanic’s liens and other time-sensitive documents are tied to the postmark date on the notice. Previously, postmarks reflected the deposit date, giving credit managers a reliable way to time lien notices and contract deadlines. The recent announcement clarifies that postmarking occurs when an item is processed, not deposited, which could c…

Artificial intelligence (AI) has taken a life of its own, integrating itself into almost every facet of our daily lives. Over the years, its use has only increased in both professional and personal settings. However, AI is only as useful as the information you provide it, and without the right context, it can generate false or inaccurate responses.  Why it matters: Credit professionals who learn how to best leverage AI are the ones who will stay ahead. By using effective prompting strategies, they can tailor it to deliver more a…

This week marks the start of Steve Shivak, CAE, as president of NACM National, succeeding Robin Schauseil. Shivak joins NACM with decades of experience leading national and global professional organizations, most recently serving as the CEO of the International Society of Explosives Engineers.   Shivak’s vast experience working with associations coupled with his passion for education, professional development and innovation has primed him to lead NACM into the future. Ahead of his first week, Shivak sat down with us and shared what brought him to NACM and where he hop…

The National Association of Credit Management (NACM) is pleased to announce that Steve Shivak, CAE, will assume the role of President effective March 2, 2026. Following an exhaustive search led by a professional recruiting firm, the NACM Board of Directors selected Steve to lead the organization into its next chapter of growth and innovation. Steve brings more than 25 years of senior leadership experience guiding national and global professional associations through strategic transformation and operational excellence. As a Certified Association Executive, he has built a distinguished car…

Business-to-business (B2B) credit management is a field rooted in tradition, shaped by the leadership and institutional knowledge of those who came before us. Much of what makes a credit professional successful—risk assessment, negotiation, relationship-building and sound judgment—is not learned in isolation. It is developed over time, often with the guidance of someone who has navigated similar challenges.   Why it matters: Credit professionals who invest in mentorship relationships gain more than technical knowledge. They develop judgment, confidence and strategic thinking that fo…

In credit management, your day-to-day work varies. One day you might spend hours determining the best terms for a customer with a rocky credit history while on others you might be settling a mounting pile of disputes. No matter what the day brings you, data is likely playing an important role in how you make those tough credit decisions.   Why it matters: Data is important when working in credit, so it is critical that credit managers are well-versed in how to work efficiently and effectively in Excel. While …

Having a customer who consistently pays on time and represents a large portion of a company’s earnings may be a dream for the sales team, but for credit managers, a single customer dominating their accounts receivable prompts concerns about concentration risk.   Why it matters: When too much revenue sits with a few customers, it can create vulnerabilities in otherwise healthy portfolios. While a consistent, large customer can be good for business, sudden changes to the customer’s payment habits could send a company reeling when the&n…

Certifications build credentials. Webinars deliver focused learning. Conferences forge connections. Yet for many credit professionals, deeper understanding comes from everyday conversations with peers. When colleagues are spread across distances, continuing that dialogue between events can be a challenge. Why it matters: NACM’s monthly Thought Leader Forums bridge that communication gap, offering a space where practitioners discuss real-world challenges, share solutions and build lasting relationships. Thanks to our preferred payment processor, United TranzActions (UTA), Thought Leaders …