Talking to Your Bank

Talking to your bank can be stressful.  The constant phone calls can feel like harassment, and a lot of people ignore their banks completely.  

However,  the banks sometimes have important information regarding your options to foreclosure, and the only way to get their help is to take the phone calls.

Here are a few tips to get the most out of your conversations with your bank representative:

• Build a Rapport:  Ask questions, make small talk, ask about the weather, ask how their day is going; you know, try to get the other person to open up.  Someone is more likely to help you if they like you and think you like them.
• Keep them on the phone: If you need the bank representative to do something for you, keep them on the phone.  The longer the conversation, the more likely the representative will find a solution to your problem. Ask, ask, ask.
• Get their direct number or extension:  If communication is successful and you have built somewhat of a relationship, ask for their direct number or extension, and ask if you they can be your primary point of contact.
• Ask for their work schedule:  Not all bank representatives work a typical 9-5 schedule.  Ask what their work hours are and contact them during those hours.
• Ask for email:  Bank representatives are ALWAYS on the phone.  Email (if available) is usually an easier means to getting the message to your point of contact.