Be sure to read all directions provided. Some may be included in emails. Others are on site and linked. Print these out and/or take careful notes. Details are critical when mystery shopping and can make or break the shop deal. If you go to the wrong branch, shop during the wrong hours, or forget to get a copy of the receipt, you’re not likely to get another assignment, and you probably will not be reimbursed.
All shops have different requirements. Go over the specifics carefully. You may be required to time to the second on certain things (like drive line times at pick up windows), take down the names of certain employees (discretely of course), or listen for certain phrases (“welcome to . . .” or “thank you for shopping at . . .”)
Some shops require certain purchases (item under $1 from a candy counter), a certain dollar amount of gas, an appetizer before the main course, or very specific foods from the bar (roast, potatoes, bread). In some cases, you’ll be asked to evaluate the outside of the establishment (parking area and landscaping) or bathrooms (cleanliness, stocking).
Some of the newer shops require photos (usually digital), audio, or video taping. If you take such shops, make sure that you have the proper equipment and that you are familiar with how to use the gear. Practice ahead, or you may ruin the shop by not getting the required documentation. Frankly, it’s better to start with more traditional shops and get a feel for the industry before tackling the high-end technical jobs.
Make mental notes and take a few seconds to think about the shop before walking in. Even simple shops can seem complicated, especially the first time around. If you’re required to give the hair color of the cashier and to include whether the server wore glasses or not, that’s simple but can easily be missed if you’re not on top of your game.
Do not review or make notes out in the open, but do consider carrying a small notepad in your purse or pocket. You can scribble down exact times (if required) and the names of employees (watch spellings carefully) while in a bathroom stall or out in the car before driving away.
Once you’ve completed the shop, attend to the paperwork as quickly as possible. Details can fade quickly with time. The sooner you put your observations to paper the better. In most cases, you can download the final form, fill out the blanks (drive a block away to do more detailed notes) and then transfer the information online when you get home.
As a general rule, most mystery companies require paperwork within 24 hours. This almost always includes an online form to be filled out and submitted electronically and also may include faxing or scanning and emailing such extra documents as receipts or signed forms from management.