How to Be a Great Mystery Shopper in Australia

I love my job! Let me tell you why.

A while back, a friend asked me if I wanted to join her marketing analysis team. It sounded boring so I hesitated. I didn’t know anything about marketing analysis. Why was she asking me to be on her team?

She laughed when she saw the look on my face. “I mean mystery shopping.” Now I was even more confused.

“Mystery shopping? Do you mean shop lifting?” I asked.

“No! It’s just the opposite,” she said. “Businesses hire companies, like Above Benchmark, to send people like us into stores or restaurants. The mystery shopper then reports on the experiences. It helps business owners analyse their businesses.”

Now I understood what she meant, so I followed my friend’s lead and signed up.

Let me share with you how a mystery shopper can excel at this job:

Pay Close Attention to Details

Keep track of the names of the employees you meet at the business where you are sent. Don’t act like a reporter, writing everything down in front of the workers. Just act like a typical customer.

Take mental notes. How are the employees dressed? Are they helpful? Are the shelves and products clean? If you’re sent to a restaurant, remember the quality of the food. How is the customer service?

It takes time to get the hang of this, but with on-the-job practice, you’ll notice more details.

Make a Purchase and Keep Your Receipt

You’ll be reimbursed for your purchase. Making purchases are an important part of the job. What was the checkout process like? How long did you wait in line? Was the cashier courteous and accurate? Did she bag your purchase to your satisfaction?

Although reimbursement is certain, it can take several months to arrive. Also, be aware that travel expenses and tipping may not be eligible for reimbursement.

Write an Excellent Report about Your Experience

Follow the guidelines provided by the mystery shopper company that hired you. The more details you include in your report, the happier the store or restaurant owner will be. He can use the information you supply to improve his business – and to see where his company outshines the competition.

If you live in Australia, you can become a mystery shopper in Sydney or Brisbane by signing up with Above Benchmark. There is never a fee to join. Visit their website at http://abovebenchmark.com.au.