Written By: Shawna Greene, Op-Ed Writer
This business has its fair share of setbacks at times and many of us have rolled with the ups and downs. During those down times, many have been laid off because of the market conditions and other varying reasons and then struggle for months trying to find a new job. Many just have to find a whole new career.
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That’s just the nature of the business but how do some mortgage processors and underwriters keep surviving these hurdles? Well to put it simple, they know how to get stuff done effectively and efficiently. Lenders need individuals that don’t need their hands held especially in those good times when they are pushing out a high volume of deals. There is no big secret these processors and underwriters in demand are holding back from any other individuals.
The difference between them and others is how they feel about their career and it shows in their work. For those of you learning this business or just searching for a way to make yourself stand out, here are just some of the traits a successful individual demonstrates, that makes them an important asset and contributor to their team.
1. Organized- Any successful processor or underwriter takes this extremely serious. Everyone has their own way to do things and it is essential to figure out a system that works for you. You have to take control of your day. Time is not something that can be wasted when you work on a set of deadlines. Simply using your Outlook calendar or tasks to plan out what you have to do each day is just one of several ways you can manage your time and what gets done. Having all your resources readily available is also important. We work with different checklists, guidelines, several systems with a different password for each, need tech support often, etc. Not having to search for these items and search for phone numbers to call when we need them will save a lot of time.
2. Dependable/Reliable- They don’t call out of work for no real reason. They are always at work and on time. Their loan officer or manager doesn't have to worry if they are getting their work done. They understand and care about the customer and the several other parties interested that can be affected if they don't do their job properly.
3. Self-sufficient- Managers might forget they are even there sometimes because they don’t have to bother them for anything. They use their resources wisely and will not ask for anyone else to step in and fix their work until they have exhausted all available options.
4. Critical Thinker- They don’t accept giving up on a customer until they have fact-checked and researched every avenue possible to make their deal work. They engage the customers with questions, explore options, offer advice, they solve problems quickly. Being able to come up with creative ways to solve issues and get things done is one of the most valuable attributes of any employee in the mortgage process. Don’t be afraid to use Google, call a courthouse, order a bank statement yourself. With no time to waste there are many days you will need to be on top of that stuff when the customer has no clue how to get it done or just won’t.
5. Effectively Communicate- No one has to chase them for an updated status on a loan. They will have detailed notes for anyone necessary to see or they will give anyone who needs to know a phone call.
6. Creative- They are always coming up with an idea to improve service to customers, improve business practices and processes, increase profitability for the company. It doesn't always have to be something on a large scale either. It could be a simple team building experience to get others motivated, or coming up with some neat helpful tips to a new homebuyer to make them feel good and know they are getting personalized service. A successful business constantly evolves and seeks innovation and creativity to keep them relevant.
7. Strong-Willed and Motivated- They don’t let high volume overly stress them out. Make no mistake, even the best of the best gets overwhelmed but the way they handle and manage their stress level is key in keeping their head above water. Being strong-willed and determined to meet their goals and exceed them no matter what is the mindset needed to make it in this business.
8. Respected Leader by Example- They set a great example for others to follow. They promote healthy competition. They can manage themselves and step up when needed to take on additional responsibility.
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These are just some of the characteristics of a great mortgage processor and underwriter. Take these to heart and work on a plan of action to improve in the areas you may not be as strong in. You will see the rewards and opportunities coming your way quicker when you demonstrate these traits and show everyone just how valuable you really are.
About The Author
Shawna Greene - As an op-ed writer, Ms. Shawna Greene is a Senior Loan Specialist working full-time with a major U.S. Homebuilder (NVR, Inc). Her work includes processing, training, and assisting loan closers. She has been in the mortgage industry for 12 years working in several aspects of the business including being a mortgage broker, loan officer, loan processor, servicing settlements, loan modifications, special loans, investor reporting, and mortgage defaults. Shawna enjoys this business and looks forward to helping many others learn about it as well.
