Mystery shopping is such an interesting and fulfilling way of getting money, one that allows you to help enterprises increase their customer experience. As a mystery shopper, you will be expected to judge the quality of service, products, and all-round customer experience of a business without them knowing anything about you.

It is quite a unique job which depends much on keen observation, attention to detail and the ability to give an accurate report. In case you want to turn into a successful mystery shopper, this guide will offer you some of the most important tips you need to get started.

What is mystery shopping?

Mystery shopping entails when one is hired by companies to pretend that he/she is a common customer and evaluate different aspects of their business. Such evaluations could be the cleanliness of the store, the professionalism of the staff or the quality of the products or services, as well as how it complies with its policies.

Once your shopping experience is over, you'll give a detailed piece of feedback, usually filling out a survey or report. Your assessment supports businesses to optimize the operations and the customer experience.

1. Understand the Requirements

Before you get involved in mystery shopping, ensure that you know their specific requirements for each assignment. Some of the mystery shopping companies may specialize in particular industries, such as retail, food services, or hospitality, among others.

Others may only need certain actions to be made, such as asking specific questions or buying certain products. Always take your time to carefully go through the instructions to make sure that you are familiar with what's expected of you.

2. Sign Up with Reputable Companies

There are so many mystery shopping companies on the internet, but not all of them can be trusted. It is necessary to join the reputable organizations that have been known to pay their shoppers on time and give genuine tasks.

Avoid companies that require you to pay before you can work with them or appear to be scams. Seek reviews or recommendations from master shoppers to be able to identify reliable companies.

3. Be Detail-Oriented

Paying attention to details takes a major part in shopping. Your findings will be used by businesses, and so you need to be thorough in your judgments. From the attitude of the staff to the cleanliness of the store and the quality of the product, make sure you observe everything when it happens. Write down some details immediately after the experience so that the important facts are not lost.

4. Maintain Professionalism

Despite the fact that you're pretending to be a common client, professionalism is critical during the process. Use the business as though you are seriously going to purchase something. Be kind and friendly; don't try to overstep, though. Keep in mind that your mission is to observe and to assess, not to disorganize and distract the staff.

5.Follow Instructions Precisely

Every mystery shopping assignment will have a set of specific instructions. These instructions need to be followed exactly to make sure your report is worth the while and accurate.

For example, you might be required to visit the store at a given time, to talk to a particular employee, or to purchase a given product. Subsequently, compliance with instructions literally will ensure submitting a valid report and losing no time on ambiguities.

6. Take Notes and Record Observations

When doing a mystery shopping visit, it would be wise to take notes on your observations. Either on your phone or on paper, make sure you note the time, interactions and any other detail you might need. As soon as you are home, you should work on your report to keep information fresh in your mind.

7. Keep Track of Your Assignments

While you become a professional mystery shopper, it can be useful if you keep track of completed assignments, payment status, and companies you worked for. This can keep you organized and make sure that you are not left out with no payment for work done. Most mystery shopping concerns provide apps or web portals where you can track your tasks.

8. Get paid and get the goodies

Among the many advantages that mystery shopping offers is the fact that one is paid for doing something they enjoy (eating free meals, receiving free products or services, etc.). Have a look through payment terms and conditions before accepting an assignment.

There are companies that pay per assignment, while others reimburse you for purchases you make while there. Knowing the payment frame will enable you to find out whether mystery shopping is a profitable business for you.

Why Should You Consider CTRL Service for Your Start on Mystery Shopping?

CTRL Service is one of those best, reliable and professional mystery shopping services. With CTRL Service, the variety of tasks and focus on appropriate compensation make it the perfect entry point to a career as a mystery shopper. Be you new in the industry or a seasoned shopper, CTRL Service has deals for you.

Begin your way to being a successful mystery shopper today with CTRL Service to start with!