The Voice of the Money

A few years ago, while I was explaining to one of my clients my role in his business operations, I heard myself say with some exasperation: “I’m the voice of the money!”. I can’t remember the precise context in which I said it, but it was probably something like this:

“Your money is out there in the field. That’s not where it’s supposed to be, which is in your bank account. In fact, it’s being held prisoner in the bank accounts of your non-paying customers. And what does your money want? It wants to come home to Papa. And until it gets safely home, I’m the voice of the money — your money! I speak for your cash and its fundamental interests.”

“The Voice Of The Money.” It may sound a little pompous; it might seem over-the-top. But as it happens, it’s also true. Someone has to be the advocate for the money that hasn’t been paid yet. Someone has to speak and act on behalf of pastdue receivables. So every for-profit enterprise that bills with credit terms needs that certain “someone” who’s going to take responsibility for communicating with slow-payers and no-payers about “the needs and wishes of the money”.

Of course, you and I know that this is all metaphor. Money isn’t conscious. It’s just an inanimate medium of exchange for goods and services. Nevertheless, the idea of money having a “voice” rang true for me the instant I heard myself say it. It appealed to me. It was accurate. And it stuck.

Even when I don’t deliberately announce it (and get those strange, puzzled looks), I still believe it: I am the voice of the money. The money – and especially neglected money — speaks through me.

Whether I call it a “blog” or just “topics in Accounts Receivable” is of little consequence. This department of the Effective Receivables website is where, from time to time (i.e. when I can find the time!), I post mini-articles on various subjects with direct relevance to best-practice A/R management. In every case, I’ll be writing as a friend of the money, listening to its voice and giving the reader a clear account of what the money “says”. But keep in mind is that anyone can hear the voice of the money for himself/herself. Just listen closely. You can’t miss it. It’s the just voice of common sense.