Motiv8
Exclusive Interview for David Hernandez of Pacific Collection Group – Debt Collection Agency
There are few companies out there that emulate what Pacific Collection Group has done. They deliver humanity and dedication whenever they seek debt collections from debtors. They treat individuals like human beings and wish to make positive waves in the debt collection industry. Fortunately, David Hernandez is a representative Pacific Collection Group and is here to provide more insight into the company.
For those who do not know you; can you please introduce yourself?
My name is David Hernandez, and I work for PCG. I have been working in the debt collection industry for many years now and have created a successful career out of it.
Tell us a little bit about your background and how your journey as a debt collector got started?
I started out working in retail for many years. I became incredibly successful in that industry. However, all good things must come to an end. I would find myself becoming increasingly bored in that field. I was not being challenged enough. This was my sign that I hit the top of the mountain. This is when I discovered the debt collection industry and the rest is history.
What is unique about your work style? What is your inspiration?
PCG focuses on treating customers with respect and humanity. This is a playstyle that I have been working with for years now. PCG allows me to be the best version of myself whenever I am out in the field.
My biggest inspiration in life is William Arthur Ward. He once wrote, “a warm smile is the universal language of kindness”. I implement this idea into my life every day and it has garnered me incredible results.
When you launched out a career as “debt collector”, what “big” problem did you set out to solve?
I wanted to improve the way that debt collectors approach people. PCG was already implementing this playstyle in their approach. We came together like two peas in a pod [laughs]. Approaching debtors with aggression will give you negative results. It is important to approach with understanding and kindness.
What is the biggest lesson that you have learned since you started “debt collecting”?
PCG has taught me many things. We are one of the biggest debt collection agencies in the country. The mentorship program at the company has allowed me to grow into a better version of myself. I have learned from PCG that more people are struggling than you realize. Have empathy and you can look further than you thought you could before.
What is the biggest challenge you have overcome since you started as a debt collection?
The biggest challenge that I have overcome is worrying about what my peers would say about my approach. Debt collection can be a very toxic environment for many people behind the scenes. I was worried that my peers would mock the way that I approach debtors. This would change whenever I came to PCG. They gave me the resources I needed in order to become successful. I am thankful for the opportunities I have been given here.
Breaking into the debt collection industry isn’t an easy feat. What advice would you give other millennials looking to form their own collection agency? Marketing tips?
I recommend that you enter the industry without having a mindset of greed. Many people get too wrapped up into the idea of getting rich quick off of other people’s misery. Marketing yourself as a debt collection agency that is willing to work with debtors is crucial for your success.
Where do you find your inspiration?
I find inspiration from the people around me. I get inspired every time a client congratulates me on a job well done. It is an incredibly gratifying experience to have this happen to me regularly.
What is one thing you do when you’re feeling stuck creatively?
I always make sure to take a break and come back to whatever I was working on. Being able to detach myself from something is important. That space that I create between the task and myself is crucial for me to come up with the solution.
What’s your typical day like?
I wake up at 5:30 a.m. every morning. I like to meditate, read the newspaper, and get a healthy breakfast into my system. I answer emails first thing in the morning before anything else. I start working on my major tasks once my minor tasks have been completed. This allows me to focus completely on the things that need to get done.
What would you like to achieve before the end of 2019?
I would like to grow PCG more than ever. I have a plan for expansion that I can’t share here. Be sure to look out for it in the future.
What’s one dream you’ve achieved that you’re most proud of and why?
I have always wanted to become a self-made man utilizing my talents. PCG allowed me to become this and much more. I recommend that anyone who is serious about debt-collection should work for them. They will change your life.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your teenage self?
I would remind myself to slow down and smell the roses more often.
