Mystery Shopping Business Interview Part I

I had the pleasure of interviewing author and veteran mystery shopping business owner, Shari Joseph who graciously shared her experiences in running her own mystery shopping business, and how you can start one too!

Here's part one of her words of wisdom--part two will follow in a couple of days!

Coach Melanie: So how long were you a mystery shopper before you decided to start your own business?

Shari: My situation is probably unique. Back in 1980 I got a job with a mystery shopping company doing both report writing and mystery shopping for them. A couple of years later, I was promoted to company manager. Then in 1985, I decided to form my own company. From the time I was introduced to mystery shopping to the time I became a company owner was 5 years.

Coach Melanie: What made you to decide to get into your own mystery shopping business?

Shari: The main reason for this decision was that I felt I had gone as far as I could with the company I was working for, and frankly, I saw lots of potential business and had strong ideas on how to succeed.

Coach Melanie: How much did it cost you to start your business?

Shari: It cost almost nothing to start. The real expense was supporting myself until enough business came in. I have to admit that some money came from savings and my family was supportive. I just started out of my own home and used my home phone for business. I already had the equipment. If I had to do this again, I would have gotten a separate phone line for business. I have long since moved from working out of the home to an office.

Coach Melanie: How did you get your first client?

Shari: I got my business going by getting involved with a particular trade association. I went down to the headquarters, made friends, and let them know what I was doing. They were supportive and helpful. Once they were comfortable that I was legit and professional, many opportunities opened up through that association to meet and greet their members. Some of those members became clients.

You can order Shari's book 24/7 using this URL:
http://www.mystery-shopper-business.com/affiliations/mj.html

Again, watch for part two in a couple of days!
Have a great day and happy shopping!

Taking the mystery out of professional mystery shopping--Melanie Jordan http://www.mysteryshoppercoach.com

Copyright 2005 Melanie R. Jordan E-Publishing

Please note: I am only recommending Shari's book as the best resource I have seen at a reasonable price for starting your own mystery shopping business. The ultimate decision about whether or not you go into this business rests with you. Please do your own due diligence and check with your legal and other professional advisors on the viabiity of this business for your own personal circumstances. While I believe the information she has presented to be high quality and reliable, neither I, nor my publishing company can be responsible for any losses incurred as a result of your using the information she has provided.