Mystery shoppers are encouraged to source out the most appropriate agencies without losing sight of their own objectives, the following outlines four common mistakes that mystery shoppers are likely to make:
1. Ignoring helpful information offered
Many mystery shoppers do not read all the 'help' that is offered by the company before responding to an assignment. The better companies actually require online training that is usually a simulation of the types of assignments that you have to complete before you're allowed to go on a shop.
2. Paying for information
Research the companies that you are interested in shopping for, and this information should be readily available on the Internet for free. Never pay to join a mystery shopping company
3. Misunderstanding the reporting requirements
One of the things that you will clearly need to understand is how to fill out the surveys or questionnaires properly. This is usually completed online in addition to the scanning of receipts and the input of notes. Be aware that if you don't fill out the form correctly, your entire report can be rejected and you won't get paid or reimbursed for the shop you did.
4. Getting sucked in by the hype
When you first begin your mystery shopping, you have to be realistic about the amount of money you might potentially earn. Depending on where you live and the company you work for, you might only get one or two assignments a month. So, persevere and stick with it and work your way up to performing several shops a day - the longer you work with a company and prove yourself to be reliable and articulate, the more money you will earn.
