The “Getting to Know” series is sponsored by Arbeit. Arbeit is a powerful, and easy to use communications platform that empowers businesses to reach more consumers. Innovative by nature, we are constantly listening to and understanding the businesses we partner with and developing long term industry relationships that allow us to be proactive in anticipating industry needs.
If not for “crazy” hours and a “long” commute, the ARM industry might not have had the pleasure of Jenna Guyton’s presence. But, like her, we are all happy she found her way into the industry. As the only daughter among seven siblings, she probably had more than her fair share of training for this line of work growing up. Read on to learn more about Jenna and how progress is progress, no matter how fast you are moving.
Name: Jenna Leigh Guyton
Job Title: General Counsel
Company: Americollect
Length of Time at Current Company: About seven years
Length of Time in Industry: About seven years
How did you get your start in the industry?
I actually started as a collector. I had been working in retail management and working crazy hours with a long commute. The change gave me a set schedule and helped me achieve better work-life-school balance. I’m really glad I made that change. I worked in a few other roles and have been Americollect’s general counsel for about a year.
What is your career highlight so far?
When I was still a collector I received a thank you card from a consumer. I still like to brag about that.
When or how are you most productive?
Early mornings and when I have a lot to do.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
This is a tough one, but Leslie Bender definitely stands out. She is immensely knowledgeable and always willing to share that knowledge with others.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
I’m definitely my own best critic.
What do you like most about this industry?
Well, the most obvious answer is the people, but I also like that it is a challenging industry to work in. There is always something new to learn and things to get done.
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
I would like to see a day when consumers are not afraid to talk to us.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
I would probably be working in family law or as a social security disability attorney.
Describe a typical work day.
Every morning starts with spending time with my dogs. I am not a coffee drinker, but I do like to have an energy drink to get me started in the morning. My work day usually starts by checking emails and catching up on any recent case law, proposed legislation, and that sort of thing. My day usually includes meetings, contracts, and corresponding with colleagues, clients, and outside counsel. I also usually attend a webinar or CLE each week.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Amazon shopping.
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What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
“Keep chopping wood.” I think it is important to remember that even the smallest baby steps are still steps forward.
What are you currently reading?
“House Rules” by Jodi Picoult.
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you
I have six siblings. They’re all brothers.
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Pauline Kussart at The Stark Collection Agency
The “Getting to Know” series is sponsored by Arbeit. Arbeit is a powerful, and easy to use communications platform that empowers businesses to reach more consumers. Innovative by nature, we are constantly listening to and understanding the businesses we partner with and developing long term industry relationships that allow us to be proactive in anticipating industry needs.
