Q. A representative from a collection agency won't stop calling. I'm not even sure I actually owe anything. What do I do?
A. Collection agencies recover debts from delinquent accounts. They can be intimidating, but don't panic. Here's what to do:

• First verify the credentials and authenticity of the collection company. Check consumer protection agencies like the Better Business Bureau and the Association of Credit and Collection Professionals.
• Verify the accuracy of the claim, i.e. the account and amount with your records, as well as with the company you actually owe.
• Check your credit report for possible or related errors. You can receive one free credit report every 12 months. Visit annualcreditreport.com.
• If possible, bypass the collector and pay your creditor directly. They might be more flexible.
• Check your state's statute of limitations for debt. The agency can't threaten to sue you if it's past the deadline.
• Strict laws protect you from over-zealous collectors. Find out what qualifies as harassment by searching "fair debt collection" at ftc.gov.

Q. I've got my first big job interview coming up. What's the best way to prep?
A. Taking care of these things before your interview should help you sleep a little better the night before:

• Research the company, industry, and interviewer. Review the website thoroughly. What can you
• bring to the mix?
• Practice handshakes, eye contact, and eliminating "like", "umm", and "you know" from your speech.
• Know what your credit report and background check look like.
• Find the location beforehand.
• Aim to talk less than your interviewer by asking good questions. Bring a list of questions to show your interest.
• Know the going pay rate for the position, what is being offered, and what you need. Visit bls.gov/oes for national averages by industry.
• Know the company vibe and dress appropriately.

Good luck!

Editor's Note: When answering your questions, brass consults with experienced professionals from a wide spectrum of industries. We utilize their expertise to give you the answers you need, but it's always wise to seek additional opinions from other professionals

Sources: monster.com; quintcareers.com; careerbuilder.com; ftc.gov; privacyrights.org; credit.about.com; creditinfocenter.com