Best Practices

In every facet of life, there are certain traits that distinguish the best from the average.  Mystery shopping is no exception.  Want to know the characteristics the best shoppers have in common?

Before accepting an assignment, the best shoppers read the notification thoroughly to verify:

o         They will be able to complete the assignment on time

o         They understand the company’s specifications

o         They will be able to present the required scenario during the shop 

After receiving an assignment, the best shoppers acquaint themselves with the requirements of the shop:

o         They read the shopper directions thoroughly

o         They preview the evaluation form and read the categories and questions so they understand what is expected of them

o         They email their scheduler with any questions or concerns prior to doing the shop

Best practices employed by the best shoppers:

o         As soon as they accept a shop, they immediately schedule it into their week

o         They allow plenty of time to complete the shop before the deadline

o         They print the evaluation form and shopper directions and keep them on file if they do the same project multiple times

o         They review the evaluation form and shopper directions again right before they do the shop

o         They create a scenario before entering the location (this is critical for success)

o         They don’t feel awkward when they have to be in a store longer than usual

o         They know how to behave professionally and maintain their level of professionalism no matter what level of service they receive

o         They never complain to any staff member during a shop

o         They always get every associate’s first name—NO EXCEPTIONS!!

Tips for getting associates’ names:

Although it’s not always easy to get associates’ names—especially for those who don’t wear nametags—it is a requirement for nearly all of AboutFace™ clients.  Your shop will be rejected if any names are missing, and you won’t get paid for your work.  Therefore, we want to give you a few tips to make sure that doesn’t happen:

o         Just ask!  There’s nothing wrong with asking an associate for his or her name.

o         Say something like, “You look familiar.  How do I know you?  Is your name Keith?”  OR “Have we met?  You look familiar.  I’m Joy.”  They almost always will tell you their name when you tell them yours!

o         Ask another associate, “Your manager looks familiar.  What’s his name?”  OR  “A guy was helping me in the paint department a few minutes ago.  Can you tell me who that was?” 

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If all else fails, you can call the store later and say, “I talked to a salesperson in the footwear department earlier today, but I can’t remember his name.  Could you tell me who it was if I describe him?”