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Like many in the industry, a family connection is how Jaime Barthel got her start in collections. But while that may be what opened the door, it’s not the only reason why she has stayed here for 25 years. The challenges and opportunities that she has encountered, like setting up a student loan collections team after winning a contract, fuel her as much as seeing those around her succeed. Read on to learn more about Jaime, why she loves doing laundry (but maybe not the kind of laundry you’re thinking of), and where you’re likely to find her if she’s not at home or the office.
Name: Jaime Barthel
Job Title: Director of Operations
Company: Professional Service Bureau, Inc.
Length of time at current company: 25 years
Length of time in industry: 25 years
How did you get your start in the industry?
I was recruited as a young adult with free time and keyboard capability. My aunt needed someone to assist with all of the new business their agency received, where I hand keyed accounts, comfortably situated at the owner’s desk. From a temporary, weekend assignment with comfortable digs to a full-time job at the front desk, I was dubbed a “lifer”, and no matter how many times I said no way, it rings true!
What is your career highlight so far?
Definitely the opportunity PSB presented me to set up a collection team for a student loan contract from scratch. It was an amazing experience and through staffing, managing and competing on that contract I met incredible people, learned so much and carry that opportunity with me today.
When or how are you most productive?
I am most productive early in the morning or very late at night, it is when I am able to start or track through the day, complete communication or follow up on tasks that meetings or unexpected moments created. It is when I am able to sort through my thoughts quietly, build the plan and make the best of my time. During the day, I want to be present in the task at hand, giving my team full attention and being available for the unexpected moments.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
You cannot expect me to choose just one?! There have been so many extraordinary leaders in this industry who have left footprints on my career and have freely shared their experiences, the good/bad/ugly, to help shape who I am, so to all of you, Thank you!
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
Laundry. That’s right, I said laundry. But maybe it’s not what you think. Every day we encounter dirty laundry, that needs to be sorted, washed, dried and put away. Some laundry takes courage to talk about, some is going take a few cycles, so how we do go about it, who needs to be invoved and what is going to be the best way to get it done? Well, now I’ve got your attention, and that is the kind of laundry that I take on without hesitation.
What do you like most about this industry?
The only thing that stays the same is everything changes. This industry is ever changing and there isn’t one day quite like another. The fast pace and the people are my favorite. I have made so many deep-rooted connections that last and thick or thin we support each other and want what’s best, together a whole, while we compete and work alongside each other.
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
I would change the perception of our industry, to provide consumers and regulators a better idea of what we do to and who we are. I would like to eliminate barriers created by broad legislation and misunderstanding. Participating in state level advocacy has been incredibly meaningful and experiencing legislators being open to a conversation and gaining confidence in our industry makes me believe we have accomplished so much and will continue to do so.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
That’s easy. I would be at the horse barn, where even in the cold Minnesota winter, it is always 45 and sunny. I am fortunate to have always been around horses and compete in dressage. Fair warning, if you want to talk about horses, I will and may never stop.
Describe a typical work day.
I start by reviewing current statistics, KPI’s and let the data drive the discussion. What & Who need to be celebrated, what needs to be recalibrated, and where my calendar dictates me to be. Every day is an adventure and I enjoy connecting with team members, clients, and take on whatever the day delivers with a smile. If I cannot smile, I just press the panic button on my keyboard repeatedly, reset and go again.
What is your guilty pleasure?
– Reading books of all kinds. Please send me your recommendations!
– Riding my horses as often as possible.
– Fishing with my husband.
– Taking the dogs out on nature walks.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
– Lead with your authentic self and the rest will fall into place.
– Be slow to speak and quick to listen.
What are you currently reading?
– “Four Seasons of Snarky” by Sherry Kuehl
– “Conscious Communications” by Mary Shores
– “The Mind is a Battlefield” by Joyce Meyer
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
Nothing makes me happier that watching those around me step into their talents and shine! It inspires me to show up, be present and stay engaged. I might be your next biggest fan, but you’ll have to introduce yourself so I can start cheering you on!
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Bob Duggan
