Mystery shoppers go to business organizations as customers. They interact with the employees, make a purchase and then fill out an evaluation form describing all that happened during their visit, and get paid for this service. A mystery shopper can be employed, self-employed, retired, male or female, or a seasoned citizen.

Most mystery shopping companies ask you to complete an online application form to be considered for assignments. Even though companies differ from one another in procedures, the basics are the same. Applications must be complete in detail, following the specific instructions given. Legitimate mystery shopping companies do not charge application fees.

While applying for a typical job, there are legal restrictions regarding the types of questions the employer can pose. An applicant may be asked to provide information regarding age, race, marital status, number of children and their ages. Prospective employers may also want to know if the applicant wears glasses, has pets or owns a car. In certain companies such questions are optional, while others consider them mandatory. Questions related to pets are asked because you need a pet if you are assigned to go to a pet grooming service. Questions related to age and race are asked because certain assignments need shoppers of over or under a certain age in order to match customer demographics. To test the compliance with non-discrimination laws, they may require three to four couples each from different races.

A writing sample is best created on a word processor to make sure that spelling, punctuation and grammar matter are all accurate. Capitalize the first alphabet in each sentence and proper nouns. When writing on the computer, many people ignore punctuation, drop letters and use abbreviations. Such mistakes are not acceptable in mystery shopping reports. Before submitting the application, it is advisable to proofread it for errors.

Certain companies with online application forms ask applicants to print and mail a copy of their Independent Contractor Agreement. Others ask for a handwriting sample or other documentation. A quick response will be beneficial in such cases. A person who takes weeks to print, sign and send a contract form is generally ignored by the hiring company.

A big part of a mystery shopper's job is filling out report forms and writing narratives or comments. So a person who does not bother to submit a good application may not be considered systematic and perfect in submitting reports.

Mystery Shopper provides detailed information on Mystery Shopper, Mystery Shopper Jobs, Become a Mystery Shopper, Free Mystery Shopper and more. Mystery Shopper is affiliated with How To Become A Secret Shopper.

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