How to Become a Good Mystery Shopper

After you read the article on how to become a mystery shopper, you need to work on becoming a good mystery shopper. It's not just about filling out forms. You also have to be a good actor to be successful.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• An imagination
• Nerves of steel
• The ability to think on your feet

1. While the mystery shopping company will tell you what the assignment is about, many times it's up to you to chose a scenario. For instance, if you're doing a bank shop where you have to inquire about a savings account, go for a simple explanation, like, "I'm interested in an account my little girl." Don't make the explanation too elaborate. Basically, you're telling a lie, and the more complicated it is, the harder it will be to keep it believable.

2. Dress appropriately for the shop. If you're asked to shop at a designer purse location like Coach, don't show up in ripped up jeans and a tee-shirt. The staff is likely to treat you with the disdain you deserve because they're pretty sure you won't buy anything.

3. Be prepared to wait at some of your shops, especially banks and real estate shops. You're usually paid more for these because you may have to wait up to 45 minutes to be seen. Be prepared to spend an hour or more with real estate shops, because you will be seeing property.

4. Make sure you check your watch discreetly, but often. Many shops will ask for the exact amount of time you had to wait for service, when the shop started and ended. Don't be too obvious, or the staff may figure out that you're a mystery shopper.

5. Be sure to have your paperwork in the car and don't bring it into the location. You'll be able to give a more accurate report the sooner you fill out the questionnaire. Turn in your information as soon as possible, as many companies will only give you about 24 hours to report.

Tips & Warnings

• Be accurate. If you forget pertinent details, like times, or you show up late, the shop will be marked as invalid and you won't get paid.
• If you're asked to get a business card, remember to do so or they may not accept the shop.
• Some shops will require the divulging of personal information, like social security or driver license numbers. This is usually for shops which require filling out an application. While these shops tend to pay more, if you're uncomfortable with it, don't do it.
• Most companies will not allow you to do the same shop more than once within 30 days. The staff might remember you and start to wonder why you're back asking for the same information.

[nutritionist5]

on 12/15/2009 Nicely done with great tips regarding mystery shopping. *****

[jull14]

on 7/10/2009 This article is so interesting and helpful. I really love this article. Thank you for sharing this information with us, the steps are very easy to follow and please keep up the good work. Thanks and have a bless weekend.