| |
Ten Mystery Shopping Tips
By Terry Cressman
1. Apply to as many companies as you can. The more you apply, the better your chances of getting hired as a mystery shopper. You can find mystery shopping companies here: Free Mystery Shopping List
2. If you accept a mystery shopping job, it's very important that you complete it. If an emergency arises and you absolutely cannot complete the job, inform your scheduler as soon as possible. Schedulers keep track of who is reliable and who isn't, so make sure you only accept jobs you know you can complete.
3. You'll receive instructions with each mystery shopping job. It's very important to follow these instructions carefully. Does the job require two adults on the shop? Then bring another adult with you - not your kids. Does the job specify the time frame in which you are to complete the job? Don't go earlier or later, go within the time slot specified.
4. Never inform the staff that you are observing them or that you are a mystery shopper. The staff you are evaluating must never suspect you are a mystery shopper. Do not fill out the report in front of them and don't take obvious notes. Your body language, tone of voice and behavior should be as normal as possible to not arouse suspicion.
5. Remember to note as many details as possible. Staff names, service time, arrival time, staff appearance (if you can't get a name). The more observant you are, the easier your report writing will be.
6. Complete the report thoroughly, answering all questions in detail and completely. If the report asks you to write three examples - provide three examples. Keep your reports neat, use correct spelling and make sure to proofread. Submit your report as soon as possible, but most importantly - on time!
7. Do not give opinions, give facts. You should note "waiter took 15 minutes to bring us coffee" rather than "the waiter took too long bringing us coffee". Stay neutral. Keep your details as neutral as possible - don't report based on emotions, but based on facts.
8. Understand the job specifics before accepting. How much does it pay? Are you reimbursed for spends? Will it require a fair bit of driving (think about your fuel bill)? How much time are they giving you to complete the job? Is it at a time that you can accommodate? By quickly assessing each job when it's first offered, you'll be more likely to accept the jobs that best fit you and keep it fun for yourself.
9. Realize that some mystery shopping jobs don't actually pay you, they only cover the amount of the purchase. Sure that gives you a 'free' product, but some shoppers don't find that worthwhile. When you're a new mystery shopper, consider accepting all types of shops to build experience and a name for yourself. After you have a few shops under your belt and have proven yourself to be a dependable mystery shopper, you can let your scheduler know you only what shopping jobs that actually pay. Or not - you may find you enjoy doing all types of jobs!
10. Keep in contact with your scheduler. Accept last minute - panic jobs whenever possible. Your scheduler may remember the favor and remember you when that fun, high paying shop lands on her desk.
Mystery shopping can be a great way to make extra money. All you need to do to get started is fill out as many applications as you can, follow the directions of each job and submit your well written reports on time. As the schedulers get to know you better and see that you're dependable and provide good work, you could find more mystery shopping jobs offered than you could ever complete!
Have fun getting paid to shop!
Copyright 2005 Walletboosters.com
About the Author
Terry Cressman is dedicated to providing free tips and resources for a variety of extra income opportunities. You can visit her website at: http://walletboosters.com
Article Source: http://www.simplysearch4it.com/article/2383.html
| If you wish to add the above article to your website or newsletters then please include the "Article Source: http://www.simplysearch4it.com/article/2383.html" as shown above and make it hyperlinked. |
| |
|
