Restaurant Mystery Shops--Worth Your Time? (Ask The Coach)

Question:

I answered an ad for a high-end restaurant shop. They sent me a huge training manual to read and some rather severe instructions as to what is and is not allowed. They, of course, pay for this high-end meal for two, but the shops themselves only pay $5-10. They are adamant about the fact that if the narrative is not written properly and if certain requirements are not met, they will not pay for the meals nor for the shop. Do you feel it's worth my time?

Answer From Coach Melanie:

It is very common for a restaurant shop to only pay $5 to $10 above the reimbursement--some don't pay anything above the reimbursement at all. It sounds like their concern is that many mystery shopping "dabblers" who are really in it for the "fun" assignments rather than being a professional, have burned them by not following instructions, and not doing a good job on the
narrative. So to compensate, they have a stern attitude and guidelines.

If you are good at following directions and write strong narratives, you shouldn't have any trouble. Also, if you feel you will do other assignments with this company, once you learn their guidelines, the next shops will go easier. If you want to do this shop under those conditions, and it is a restaurant you enjoy, then go for it. If you think it is too much trouble, then pass.

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