Applying for a Job as a Mystery Shopper
Okay, you have done your homework, and decided that you want to become a mystery
shopper. You have looked around online, and found the company that you think you want
to work for, and so now all you have to do is fill out a simple application, right? Well, the
bad news is that those applications aren’t always that simple, and in fact, can be
downright confusing to some folks, so let me help you out here with the basics.
Chance are your application will be made up of two different parts, as most are, your job
description (including a possible test at the end), and your personal information and work
history. Many employers now require you to take basic skills tests, integrity and ethics
tests, and reading comprehension tests during the hiring process, so be prepared. Part of
your job as a mystery shopper will be to read and comprehend information sent to you by
your employer, and to then be able to provide the employer with your own assessment of
what you see when you do your shop, which requires good communication skills.
There will be a part of the application that will talk to you about the importance of
remaining anonymous; so that no one will actually know that you are a mystery shopper,
which will enable you to get a true study of the site you are visiting. If the employees
know or suspect that you are a mystery shopper, they will alter their normal behaviors to
try and earn a good score, which will basically defeat the purpose of the mystery shop.
You must never carry your mystery shopper paperwork with you to a shop, as this is the
first clue that you are doing something suspicious. You have to be able to browse and
remember what you see, so that you can type up your report upon leaving the job.
When given an assignment, you are expected to complete it at the date and times
specified, and have all paperwork turned in promptly. If you routinely have problems
completing assignments on time, you will be relieved of your position, or just won’t
receive new assignments. If you do have a problem, you are expected to contact your
employer as soon as possible, just as you would be required to do with any other job.
You must be able to respond to all of the questions that you are supplied with, and not
leave anything blank or unanswered. Un-clear or blank answers could result in your not
getting paid, or losing future opportunities.
You must have up-to-date contact information on file at all times. If you change your
phone number or move, you should notify your employer right away, as this limits their
ability to process your reports for payment, as well as to contact you with new
assignments. Some employers will agree to communicate with you via email if you
prefer.
The company you work for will let you know when they process payments, usually it is
on a monthly basis, occurring most often on the 20th day of the month. In order to be
paid, all of the required documentation must be completed and turned in by the required
date.
Most companies will not allow you to perform a mystery shop on a business where you
have a personal relationship with the employees, friends or family. You also have to be at
least eighteen years of age or older to qualify for a position.
Take the time to read all of the fine print, and make certain that you understand and feel
confident that you can meet the expectations the company has for you, and if not, ask
questions until you do. Keep in mind that you won’t get rich working as a mystery
shopper, but it can be a fun way to make some extra cash!
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