The subject of credit control is a critical topic, and is an issue that is vital to business start-ups and established ones; unfortunately it is a management issue that is not prioritised as much as it should be.  Survival, sustainability and growth is determined by adequacy of cash flow, not necessarily generating profits/surpluses.

If cash is not pulled in on time to (at least) meet cash debts then sustainability is normally maintained by additional borrowings and/or payment delays of debts – whether it can continue to be maintained is a separate issue.

There are effectively two stages to the management of credit control, namely the initial granting of credit facilities and its subsequent management.   Granting credit always carries an element of risk (of not receiving the cash), credit control is about the management of that risk.

Clients should be assessed for their credit worthiness (credit scoring), the size and status of the client is not a determinant of their credit worthiness, large organisations are as likely to default as small ones.

Credit scoring can be carried out using trade and bank references, Companies House information, county court register, client visits, rumours, first impressions and credit reference agencies.  The internet is a useful tool in credit scoring and one has an access to a large amount of relevant information and credit ratings.

Written agreements should be drawn up starting the terms and conditions of payment, for example, number of days to pay, interest charges on late payments.   This is important if legal action is to be pursued, and helps maintain financial discipline.

Once the invoice is issued then call the client within a few days (as part of a “post sales” review) to check that the client is happy, that there are no problems and that the invoice was received (and by the correct person/department).  If payment is not received by the due date then reminder letters/faxes and phone calls need to be made, the letters or faxes will go up in severity from the “friendly” to potential court action – at this stage client relationships would have deteriorated – court actions can be instigated online and are procedurally efficient.

Technology can play an important part in credit control, for example the issuing of invoices via e-mail, setting up time alerts (Microsoft Outlook), and the production of credit reports showing outstanding invoices and days outstanding.  Electronic delivery methods will quicken the collection processes, provide confirmation that the invoice was sent, and save money on consumables and postage.

Our new website reflects the main areas that Pro Active Resolutions works in, namely self-employment, the creative and voluntary sector, businesses, education and training.  We provide practical accounting, management, training and consultancy support to businesses, the not for profit and individuals. 

The purpose of my blog is to contribute to, share information, and facilitate dialogue on a wide variety of topics.   Hopefully this will strike a chord and will provide a positive contribution to an ever changing landscape.

We have a growing library of free resources and information, such as our acclaimed freelancer guide, business planning tools and fact sheets.   Over time we will be increasing the range and variety of these resources and be announcing some new developments.

Happy reading and please feel free to comment and contribute.