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O. Long-Distance Skip-tracing: Long-distance information is a very important source of
information, which can be accessed by dialing (Area Code) 555-1212. If the debtor has
an unlisted number, the operator won’t reveal it. Try calling back and ask for the
number, giving the operator a phony address. Many times, the operator will tell you
there is no listing at that address but there is a non-published listing for that name on
Orange Street. You have just narrowed down your skip to Orange Street.

Occasionally you can get the operator’s cooperation by being straightforward and
telling her you know there is a good possibility your debtor is not there but the person
you are calling should know how to reach him. She may question the other person
appropriately and get you a lead. Of course, this must be placed as a person-to-person
call.

When searching for skips in a small town, call the local police department, grocery
store or, especially the beauty shop.

P. Personal contact. Usually, personal contact rests with the field Recovery Agent.
However, in the event your job involves skip-tracing and recovery, and you have
exhausted your telephone efforts, it then becomes necessary to “hit the street.” Most of
the techniques used on the telephone can also be applied to personal contacts.
Friendliness, professionalism and asking for help will go a long way in obtaining the
desired results. Properly executed, personal contact can sometimes be even more
effective than the telephone.

In contacting former employers, creditors, utilities and other businesses, the direct
approach is recommended. Identify yourself and explain that you are trying to obtain
a new address, telephone number or employment information on the debtor. Again,
never divulge that the purpose of your call relates to a past due account.

An indirect approach is recommended when contacting relatives, friends or ex-
neighbors. This is the time to use your imagination. However, it is important to keep
in mind that your skip-tracing techniques may have to be defended. Evaluate the
situation, and use good judgment and reasoning. In today’s litigious society, it is
essential that you use care in divulging your reason for wanting to locate the debtor.

Q. When you feel you have exhausted all leads, with the approval of your client, you
may want to offer a cash reward. If you make this decision, be certain the collateral
is recovered before payment. Do not pay on leads alone; repossess the collateral first!

R. In the Websites Section, you will find a number of very useful sites for locating skips,
and also information on locating military personnel. In addition, you can contact the
state agency that regulates utilities and obtain, for a nominal fee, a list of all public
and private utilities. As previously stated, only public utilities are required by law to
provide information. However, it is possible to make important contacts at private
companies.

Of the many books on the art of locating people, I highly recommend “How to Find
Missing Persons” by Ronald Eriksen. (ISBN 1559501162). It is truly an outstanding
book of information and techniques, and makes for some very interesting reading.