How to Equip Oneself for Mystery Shopping

Disguised as regular customers, mystery shoppers visit stores, restaurants and service businesses. They rate the service in the store by filling out reports that are sent to management. Mystery shopping is a fun part-time job. There are some items every mystery shopper needs to be successful.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Own a computer with high-speed, reliable Internet access. Find out what browser is required, if specified. Microsoft Word and Excel are also helpful tools.
2. Get a digital camera. Find out if the company has requirements for the size and type of camera. Find out if you can use a cell phone camera. A timer and ability to type in notes are other helpful items to have on a cell phone.
3. Locate a local business where you can make professional copies and fax documents or get your own all-in-one copier/scanner/fax machine/printer.
4. Carry a purse or bag large enough to fit all your equipment without being too heavy to carry comfortably. You may want to designate a purse for mystery shopping so that you'll always have your equipment ready.
5. Purchase office supplies, like heavy-duty folders, pens and pencils, envelopes and notebooks. These items should fit in your purse or bag.
6. Apply for a credit card for charging your assignment purchases. Keep it separate from your other credit cards, and don't charge personal items.

Tips & Warnings

• Find out from the company what other equipment is necessary. You may need a stopwatch, a food thermometer or special video equipment. A stopwatch or timepiece is necessary for timing service.

Who Can Help:

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