What does each job involve?

Each assignment will be different. In each setting, you will "act" like a normal customer, ask questions to staff, and probably choose and order some relevant goods or services. In some cases, the assignment will require you to act out a very specific scenario (e.g. ask a particular question or present a particular problem). Each assignment will present a new challenge, and this is both exciting and rewarding. As the "shopper", you need to remember, and act upon the precise instructions you're provided with, and yet make sure that you're not revealed as a Mystery Shopper. This can be quite a challenge! – especially when you start out.. but it quickly gets easier.

What skills or prerequisites are needed?

• Should be fluent in English language.
• Internet access is essential - we use a secure online system that lists assignments and accepts your results. All the reporting will be conducted via our online portal.
• An active e-mail account as this will be the main communication tool.
• An active mobile number as this will be used to contact and explain any specific guidelines and training if needed.
• A digital camera or a mobile phone with a good quality camera and voice/call recorder.
• A bank account to get the shopper fees
• Reliability, honesty and diligence (always completing any assignment you accept and doing so on time and to the highest standard possible)
• Organisational skills and punctuality. You must be able to plan ahead, make commitments and be able to keep them
• Presence of mind, clarity of thought and concentration
• Ability to keep a cool head and remain objective and professional even when under pressure
• Attention to detail or observation skills
• A very good memory – for detail.
• Basic computer literacy
• Access to a computer or tablet and regular internet access.

What equipment do I need?

You need to have regular access to a computer and the internet including email. A mobile phone with the ability to take photographs of reasonable quality might also come in handy. Other features on a smartphone might also come in handy for recording notes during assignments, but these should be used discreetly.

Do I need to have experience in mystery evaluation?

Prior experience in mystery shopping evaluation is not mandatory for an assignment. After screening the information or data provided at the time of registration, we will at times, also provide appropriate training and guidance to you for conducting audits. Please do not let this prevent you from applying to assignments.

Do I need to have my own transport?

Not necessarily, but if you do have we may be able to offer you more assignments.

Can I take other people (adults or children) with me on assignments?

This again may be possible (or even required) on a case by case basis. For a visit to an attraction, it may be a requirement for the shopper to have a family and take young children. For other assignments, it will be a requirement that you go alone.

Do I get paid travel expenses like mileage and parking?

Depending on the assignment there may be a mileage-based travel and possibly a parking allowance available. This will be made clear on the details for each assignment, before you decide whether to accept or reject the assignment. The details about your availability and range will be used to consider whether you will be suitable for new assignments in your area as they come up.

Do I have to spend my money on products I don’t want?

No. You will not be required to spend your money on goods that you don't want, unless with specific assignments this is reflected in an allowance for reimbursement of your expenses, or a suitable amount being added to your fee.

Every assignment is different, with different compensation as well as instructions. You're able to see the details of each job (and ask any questions if you need to) before you choose which you accept and which you don't.

In some cases you may need to make purchases as part of the assignment. Where the transaction is fairly low cost there may be a specific allowance (where you'll be reimbursed based on your receipt up to a specific value), or your "fee" will be set higher to allow for an amount for you to spend within the store as you choose. In other cases (especially higher value transactions) you will be required to make a purchase (and you must have the available funds to do this if you accept the assignment) but you are given the ability to return the goods for a full and immediate refund.

What if I need to cancel an assignment?

If you are not able to fulfil an assignment after you've agreed to do so, we ask that you inform us directly at the earliest opportunity - so that we can either reschedule it or arrange for another evaluator. If you do not inform on time, you chances of getting future assignments are reduced.

Should I keep my evaluation records?

Although we would have all of your evaluation records with us at all time. In case of non-payment of fees, you can refer back to the numbers of assignments conducted - so that we can make the payments.