Mystery Shopping Responsible Behavior
This is one in a series of posts on mystery shopper best practices.
This week, in the last of this series, we examine four points in the MSPA Code of Professional Standards and Ethics For Mystery Shoppers that address responsible behavior. All secret shoppers who achieve MSPA mystery shopper certification commit to uphold this code, and they are standards that all mystery shoppers, whether certified or not, should follow.
I will not use any MSPA media to publish complaints against vendors, clients, shoppers or mystery shopping providers.
The MSPA has a mystery shopper forum where shoppers can share information, including feedback on mystery shopping companies. The MSPA forum, and other public forums, are not the correct venue to air grievances against others. There is never a reason to “flame” any other secret shopper or company.
If it is necessary to give negative feedback about a mystery shopping company (such as if payments are consistently late) stick to the facts and present them objectively.
I will not perform any shops under the influence of illegal drugs, or prescription drugs that might impair my abilities.
An impaired shopper will not be able to make needed observations, get accurate timings and complete other requirements of the mystery shopper assignment. This is true even if the drugs are prescribed by your doctor, such as muscle relaxers or pain medications that may affect your ability to function.
I agree not to become inebriated or drink beyond the legal limits set forth in my state or perform any other activity that my cause harm to myself or others while mystery shopping.
There are shops where you are encouraged or even required to drink alcohol, such as some bar and restaurant shops. However, it is imperative that you not drink to excess, and never drive when you have had alcohol. It is not responsible to put yourself and others at risk.
I will not disrupt the normal business flow of an operation in the process of performing a shop (do not cause a scene).
Although some people believe that the mystery shopper’s job is to be a difficult customer, in truth we are to blend in, not stand out, and certainly not cause a scene. Do not be difficult or cause a problem for employees or other customers.
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