Listening: When speaking to a debtor, it is important to listen to why they are in debt. This will help the debt collector determine a solution. Negotiation: Working with debtors to start some sort of payment plan, or outright repayment of a debt requires good negotiation skills. Speaking: Debt collectors spend most of their time on the phone talking with debtors. Being a good speaker is useful. Persistence: Some debtors do not want to be found, or may not be responsive when called by a debt collector. Successful debt collectors do not take no for an answer. less