In 2009, collections companies from across the country took part in an intense survey to determine the best places to work in the industry. Based on the results, the collections industry was able to identify some of the key issues that contribute to what makes a business an employer of choice.

Small companies ranked in the most "A" ratings, versus large and medium companies. Core component issues that made smaller companies desirable varied, from the fact that the leaders of the businesses are open to more input from employees, to the idea that they are part of a team that is working towards a common goal.

Some of the other factors included the feeling that the business treats people like people, not numbers. Managers were seen as handling work related issues better, and seemed more open to feedback. The areas of greatest difference among all small companies and those that were selected as winners include the number of positive responses to these questions: They felt as though their supervisor assists them to grow to their fullest potential, in addition to the feeling that their company may increase their pay, and that there is room for them to advance in the company.

At businesses of all sizes, employees were the least satisfied when it comes to benefits and pay, training and development. Overall, ratings improved from 2008. Most likely this is influenced by the realities of difficult conditions and layoffs that happened over the last year.

Major factors that had a large influence on the opinions of the workers included the idea that the leaders of this organization feel for employees' well being. Good planning and follow through of corporate objectives were highly valued as well. Leaders of businesses that were open to input from wrokers did extremely well. And obvioulsy, the workers who thought that they could trust the company reported the most favorable opinions.