The Mystery Shopper’s Manual

In some areas there is a lot of competition for mystery shopper jobs. However, there are some shoppers who never lack for work. They are regularly sought out by companies and, not only do they get more offers than other shoppers, they get some of the best shop offers.

How can you be one of those elite shoppers? If you are willing to put in some time and effort, it can be done.

1. Say ‘Yes’ More Often.
Schedulers need to get all of their mystery shops completed, not just the fun, interesting and high-paying ones. Do some of the drudge work (at least now and then) and it is likely you will be rewarded with the better ‘shoppertunities.’

2. Don’t Be a Flake.
Did you know that the average ‘flake rate’ is 25%? That means that one-quarter of assigned shops have to be reassigned, usually at the last minute, because the shopper canceled or just didn’t do the shop. Do not cancel a shop unless it is truly an emergency and you have no other option. “I got busy,” is not a good reason. Being reliable is the number one way to be a valued mystery shopper.

3. Submit Your Reports As Soon As Possible.
Because so many shoppers flake on shops, schedulers do not really relax until the report is submitted. Do your shop as soon as you can, and submit the report right away. This means that if you have twelve days during which you may do the shop, you should do it on day one or two rather than day eleven or twelve. Many schedulers look at when shoppers completed past assignments when awarding mystery shopper jobs.

4. Make Your Reports Shine.
When your reports are accurate, clear and well-written, you will be in demand. You might be surprised how many people lack basic writing skills. If you need help in this area, take a class at your local adult education center or consult books and online resources on grammar and writing.

5. Be a Pro.
Be someone that schedulers can enjoy working with. This means communicating with them when you have important information or need an answer to a question, but not pestering them with irrelevant junk such as joke lists. Be polite in your communications with schedulers. Most schedulers are friendly, but they are not your friends. They are your business colleagues, so act accordingly.

These five tips will make you a favorite shopper with the schedulers with whom you work.

Related articles:

1. Mystery Shopper Report Deadlines