There are many companies that hire and place Mystery Shoppers. The most important thing you can do to insure your Mystery Shopper status is to do your homework. Present yourself as a well organized and informed applicant.
Being listed with a reputable Marketing Research company is your best way to enter the Mystery Shopper arena. But once again, don't overlook the option of contacting the manufacturers yourself. Chances are they will refer you to a preferred marketing research company ... but you never know. They might just recruit you on the spot!
You can use the list located at the back of this book to locate Marketing Research companies who hire Mystery Shoppers. But don't stop there. Continued research is your key to success in becoming a Mystery Shopper. Your local library and yellow pages directory are two excellent sources in locating marketing research companies.
Once you have decided on the marketing research companies you want to register with, send them a resume', along with a photograph. The photo need not be of professional quality. A good clear Polaroid snapshot will do just fine (See a sample of a resume' in Here).
You should also include a cover letter telling them what times you are available (See a sample of a cover letter in Here). I also suggest you include a local or state map of the areas you would like to work. Give specifics in your cover letter. For example, if you prefer to only evaluate movie theaters, let them know.
As a Mystery Shopper, there are many areas you can work in. For example, you don't have to take assignments for a computer store, if you have absolutely no knowledge of computers.
The list in Here will give you an idea of places that use Mystery Shoppers. Again, the list is not all inclusive. Use your imagination to think of other manufacturers and companies that would have a need for your services as a mystery Shopper.
Remember ...
You are under no pressure to accept an assignment.
Don't be afraid to say no if you don't feel comfortable with an assignment. If you don't drink alcoholic beverages, let them know ahead of time. They will do their best to not place you in assignments that require drinking.
After you have mailed your cover letter, resume' and photograph to the marketing research companies, sit back and wait for an acceptance phone call or letter in the mail. It may take two or three weeks for an answer and in some cases even up to two or three months.
Don't Give Up -- Be Patient !
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