Navigating Peak Season With Confidence

Insights and Advice From Mike Frazee


For credit managers, peak season often brings a whirlwind of deadlines, client demands, and high-stakes decision-making.

Staying productive and composed during these times is no small feat. Mike Frazee, Director of Sales for BARR Credit Services, knows all about managing the mayhem with clarity and purpose. Here’s how Mike keeps his team of 18 professionals focused, motivated, and efficient when it matters most.

1. Prioritize With Purpose

Mike’s guiding principle is simple yet powerful: “Make a plan for your day, then work your day—don’t let your day work you.” In other words, start with a plan, accept that not everything will get done, and communicate openly about shifting priorities. Mike begins each day with a clear list of priorities and focuses on completing one task at a time. For him, multitasking often leads to inefficiency and rework.

2. Build Systems That Work for You

Mike’s organizational system is straightforward: unread emails signal tasks that still need attention, while read emails are considered complete. “Once I complete a task, I move on. I don’t dwell. That’s how you avoid ‘analysis paralysis.’” He also gamifies his workflow—challenging himself to complete recurring tasks more efficiently each time. This approach keeps him engaged and continuously improving.

3. Coach With Empathy and Intent

Mike tailors his coaching based on individual motivators. For some, it’s financial incentives; for others, it might be flexibility or recognition. “You’ve got to know your people. What motivates one person might not work for another.” He also recommends mixing large tasks with smaller, quick wins to maintain momentum and morale throughout the day.

4. Delegate Through Training

Effective delegation, Mike says, begins with proper training. He candidly shares that skipping training to save time in the short term often backfires. “If I never train you, I can’t delegate. That short-term thinking hurts in the long run.” Investing time to train team members ensures they can take on responsibilities confidently and accurately—especially during high-volume periods.

5. Manage Stress With Structure and Separation

Mike’s stress management strategy includes a firm work-life boundary. He starts his day early and avoids bringing work home, allowing time for personal activities like lawn care and immersive video games. He encourages his team to do the same—find something outside of work that provides mental clarity and balance.

6. Set Goals That Drive Progress

Mike believes in setting both short-term and long-term goals, with the former serving as steppingstones to the latter. “You can travel amazing distances if you just start walking.” He advises against overanalyzing and encourages action because progress begins with taking the first step.

7. Tackle Common Credit Challenges

Credit managers face a unique set of challenges, especially during peak seasons. Here are a few that Mike and his team frequently encounter:

  • Delayed Payments: Clients may delay payments due to internal bottlenecks or seasonal cash flow issues. Staying proactive with reminders and offering flexible payment options can help.
  • Incomplete Documentation: Missing or inaccurate data can slow down collections. Mike emphasizes the importance of training staff to ensure accuracy from the start.
  • Client Miscommunication: Misunderstandings about terms or expectations can lead to disputes. Clear, consistent communication is key.
  • Overwhelmed Teams: When volume spikes, burnout becomes a real risk. Mike’s solution? Prioritize, delegate, and support your team with realistic goals and regular check-ins.

“Accuracy beats speed. And sanity beats burnout.”

Need Support?

If your team is feeling the pressure or you’re looking for ways to streamline your credit and collections process, BARR Credit Services is ready to assist. From expert support to customized solutions, we’re here to help you focus on what matters most.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your credit management goals this busy season.


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