eNews Archive

Deciding when to write off an account as bad debt is one of the most challenging calls that credit managers face.

In October, NACM’s Credit Managers’ Index (CMI) presented a mixed economic picture, with a 0.2-point drop to 52.9 month-over-month, but a 1.5-point gain year-over-year. This level suggests that while the economy remains in expansion, growth is tepid amid notable risks.

As year-end approaches, credit professionals face a familiar haunting: customers suspending payments and disappearing into the night, causing cash flow challenges just when stability is needed most. From dodging payments to “ghosting” invoices, slow-paying customers can turn the year-end into a horror story for credit teams.

In the realm of credit management, each department operates under its own set of mysterious guidelines and formats for credit applications. While some cling to the familiarity of paper documents, others embrace the digital age with online portals, creating a patchwork of practices that can leave customers confused and frustrated.

The shadows of ineffective leadership loom large, threatening to trap credit leaders in a web of pitfalls that could spell disaster for their teams.

For credit managers working in construction, being proactive when it comes to fraud can be hard. With so many different schemes orchestrated to swindle your company out of materials or money, it can be a real nightmare for credit managers to know what to look out for, especially as fraudsters adapt.

From the steady stream of emails to an overflowing pile of credit applications awaiting your careful review, work can be overwhelming. Even after leaving for the day, it might still weigh heavy on your mind as you anticipate the next day’s workload. 

In the construction world, a mechanic’s lien is a vital legal instrument protecting laborers and suppliers. Without it, contractors and subcontractors lose legal protection, resulting in significant losses. Several factors influence lien rights. However, can other contracts or agreements, such as a non-disclosure agreement, override your right to file a notice or initiate legal proceedings?