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Lindsay Settlemyre wears way too many hats, and she is the first to admit it. Her secret to staying on top of it all? Being the first one in the office, a stack of poster-sized post-it notes, and a small team with almost as many dogs as humans. Read on to learn more about Lindsay, why she thinks this industry is more welcoming than it gets credit for, the one thing about Michigan district courts she would change tomorrow, and why she would happily trade it all to deliver the mail.
Name: Lindsay Settlemyre
Job Title: Director of Operations
Company: Stotland Craig, PLLC
Length of time at current company: We got started about five years ago and have been fortunate enough to add a few great team members and several fantastic Clients since then.
Length of time in industry: 20 years. Ive worked at three Michigan law firms, two multi-state, and collected about every type of debt. I also spent time with a payment technology company, specializing in debt collection. It was awesome working directly with so many firms and gaining a better understanding of the big players on the collection software side through our integrations.
How did you get your start 30 yearsin the industry?
While I was still in undergrad I took a job with my best friend at a local collection firm. I wasn’t expecting much, but ultimately it’s where I fell in love with the industry. I began to thrive in the environment and I took advantage of every opportunity I could to learn the ins and outs of debt collection. I ended up working as a Legal Assistant, managing the New Claims & Suit Dept., and ultimately wrapping up my time there as a Client Liaison, Process Manager – attending industry conferences and handling audits for our firm. It undoubtedly became the foundation for my career.
What is your career highlight so far?
Definitely the relationships I have built along the way. Some of my dearest friends are people I’ve met working in the industry, whether that be co-workers or clients. I really treasure these friendships, many of which now extend far beyond debt collection.
When or how are you most productive?
I love to be the first one in the office. I like to use that time before the rest of the team arrives to focus on lingering tasks or things that have proven too complex to address on the fly. I am also the queen of lists and those giant, obnoxious poster-sized post-it notes. Whether its prioritizing my day or helping my team organize a project, etc., basic, old fashioned organization goes a long way toward increasing productivity.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
I’m usually drawn to anyone who I can tell is continually trying to learn more about the industry — Whether its a senior colleague or a new hire. There are two individuals that I worked closely with, at very different points in my career, that stand out and who I would consider influential: Jenny Marcolina from Mary Jane Elliott, P.C., and Kyle VonAllmen of Panorama Services, Inc. I learned an immense amount from each of them and look back fondly on both experiences.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
Wear way too many hats – Both a blessing and a curse. I also have a knack for dramatically increasing the number of plants in any office.
What do you like most about this industry?
Oddly enough, this industry is remarkably welcoming. It makes space for a wide range of different types of talent and skill levels, and teams often end up really diverse. I think that mix contributes to a pretty enjoyable office environment and team dynamic.
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
Inconsistent E-Filing requirements across MI District Courts?!
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
I’d love to be a veterinarian. But I’ve always thought being a postal carrier would be awesome. Alone out in nature and getting paid to exercise.
Describe a typical work day.
6am-4pm. Pedal to the metal – with a few quick trips outside with my Chihuahua puppy. Our team is small, we have almost as many dogs as humans. Teams messages and dialed-in reporting allow me to manage everyone while still handling key business functions. There really isn’t part of the firm I am not involved in, so it keeps me on my toes and no two days are alike.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Though I am actively downsizing, I have been a home aquarist for years. Its definitely a labor of love. Ive kept it to fresh water, which has allowed me to incorporate my love of plants and gardening.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Whatever you are not changing, you are choosing.
What are you currently reading?
“The Let Them Theory” by Mel Robbins. Some of of the concepts may feel familiar, but it delves into themes that are easy to overlook in our busy lives and everyday interactions.
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
I have been gluten free due to Celiac Disease for about a year and a half. If anyone else has this restriction, I would love to connect. It would be especially great to share info related to industry events and which may be the most “Celiac-friendly”.
Who would you like to see answer these questions?
Chad Chilton from Goodman Frost
