Credit was used way back in 1920's, but it was not until in 1950 that credit card came into existence. All thanks to Diners Club who issued their first credit card to pay off restaurant bills. Not long after, it evolved into something bigger and larger. Now, billions of people worldwide are using credit cards as part of their way of life.
From billions of people, ten to twenty percent of those are students. Before, credit issuers shun young students, particularly college students to avail of such credit cards. Nowadays, bank company representatives are the first to chase students to sign their credit card applications. They visit schools and campuses, hoping they will be lucky finding potential and young credit card holders.
A lot has been said that a student credit card will not fully help realize the student's needs. However, that is not the case. It is advantageous when used for the right reasons; and wrong if used for the wrong ones. Depending on the end-result of a student card holder, the card can be an asset or a liability.
Students must have a lot of things in mind when it comes to expenses and budget. Once they enter universities, they stay at dorms and become away from the family. This also means having freedom and making his or her decisions. Probably, getting a student credit card is one of the choices as well.
Spending money will be a major concern for every student. With the help of a credit card for a student, they will learn how to finance their expenses. Take note that having one comes with greater responsibilities ? you have to realize that once you have your own credit card, you have obligations to fulfill. You pay for the bill with extra fees every monthly. And you can't just cut out your credit cards whenever you want to. You are under contract for one or two years until it ends.
One main suggestion for students is to set a credit limit of your choice. With a limit, you'll get to spend only when the need arises. You may only need your card for emergency situations, especially when it involves school matters. That's one benefit that you get on a student credit card.
Do not be taken away from the negative feedbacks that you have heard. Yes, they may be evil unless if used wrongly. When you maximize the card wisely, you will earn rewards in the end. So start using student credit cards now and spend thriftily!
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Do you have the experience of having a glut of credit card agents constantly hounding you day-in, day-out? Good credit card agents do not try to hard sell you anything. They are supposed to act as the middle persons between you and the bank. In other words, they are an extension of the services and customer care of the bank or card company itself. You can tell if your credit card agent is good if he or she exhibits the following characteristics:
1. An In-depth Knowledge of the Card Company
Your credit card agent should know the ins and outs of the company he or she is representing. If your agent has an intimate knowledge of the company, he or she will know the range of credit products available and which one will best fit your need. Agents who are only looking for a quick commission won't help you much when you have inquiries about their cards.
2. Honesty
There are some agents who will lie and fib just to get you to sign on the dotted line. Thus, after talking with your agent, investigate the veracity of his or her claims. You can do this by calling the customer service of the card company or bank that the agent is representing. If you found the your agent is exaggerating, drop communications with him or her immediately. A good agent will support his or her claims with statistical evidences.
3. Experience
Established credit card agents usually have had extensive experience in dealing with their clients and are in a better position to help you out. They will place your interest before theirs and will not recommend any products until they have a firm grasp of your need and financial situation. New agents may be over-zealous in serving you but as long as they are sensitive to your needs, you should not dismiss them.
4. Pros and Cons Analysis
Good agents will tell you like it is. They will explain and analyze the pros and cons of the products to you without diminishing your enthusiasm for their card. These people will give you more information so that you can make informed decisions. These are the agents that will have many loyal customers.
5. No hard selling
Good agents do not hound you all day long. Any agents who do this are most likely concern about his or her self-interest and commission only. They are unlikely able to do a proper recommendation that fit your need and financial situation. If you are really interested in their company cards, you may want to ask the card company to send you another agent. Good agent will be willing to spend some times with you to understand your need and make sure you will receive the right products that will benefit you.
Remember that as a customer, you have the right to select the type of products that best serve your need. When dealing with any credit card agent, do not give in to any hard sell or be enticed by all the high value perks that you do not need. As long as you feel uncomfortable with your agent, simply stand up, thank him or her politely and walk away.
Both Aaron Alderson & Stephen Chua are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.