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There might not be a better testament to the opportunities that are available to anyone who comes to work in the ARM industry than Barbara Garner. From responding to an ad in the newspaper to becoming a partner in a collection operation and running a state unit, she’s spent her career growing and achieving. Read on to learn more about Barbara, the envious way she gets to end her days, and how she can see the glass as half-full in any situation.
Name: Barbara Garner
Job Title: Vice-President/COO/Partner
Company: National Bureau of Collections, Inc.
Length of time at current company: 37 Years
Length of time in industry: 38 Years
How did you get your start in the industry?
I answered an ad in the newspaper. At that time I had no idea what a collection agency was. I walked in one day and looked around, everyone seemed to know exactly what they were doing, I had no clue.
What is your career highlight so far?
There have been quite a few but becoming a partner in the business this last year is a highlight I never dreamed possible. Another noteworthy highlight was serving as President of the Southwest Collectors Association and helping it merge to become the Mid-American Collectors Association.
When or how are you most productive?
My most productive time is first thing in the morning. I arrive at 6am. It helps me to zone in on the goals for the day with no distractions.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
That’s an easy one, Dave Herbert, the man who started our company in 1971 and has been a true business and personal mentor to me ever since. He has helped many become successful by using the attributes he learned in the collection industry.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
See the silver lining in a situation that seems to have none and apply it as positive motivation for my co-workers. This helps both morale and focus.
What do you like most about this industry?
The people I come in contact with, both co-workers and consumers.
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
The reputation. As past president of the Southwest Collectors Association (now the Mid-America Collectors Association), one of my major goals was to shine a positive light on the industry. I love explaining why collections is so important and pointing out the professionalism of today’s collection industry.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
That’s very hard to answer. I would probably be a veterinarian or have an animal rescue.
Describe a typical work day.
I arrive at my office at 6am to make sure I’m ready for the day and all equipment is operational and ready for my co-workers at 8am. My days are full, whether it’s support for my co-workers or doing whatever is needed to make a successful day. I leave at 5pm each day and live about 38 miles from the office so I have an hour in the morning to get zoned in to my daily goals and an hour in the evening to decompress before I arrive home.
What is your guilty pleasure?
We live on an old farm in a reasonably remote area of the county and I love to take the pickup to the back pasture, sit on the tailgate, drink champagne with my husband and enjoy the peace and quiet. It’s a very simple and relaxing way to spend a little time.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Life is full of obstacles but you will always come out the other side stronger and smarter. Never give up, no matter what.
What are you currently reading?
“The Blue Zones – Lessons for Living Longer From the People Who’ve Lived the Longest“, by Dan Buettner
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
I’m a very determined individual. I set goals and go after them. I used to be very shy, but no one believes that anymore.
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Kevin Cloud, current president of the Mid-America Collectors Conference.
