shopperpro

Your mystery shopping assignment hangs in the balance of a name. Well not really, but names are important. What was the name of the sales associate who assisted you? What was the name of the cashier? What was the name of the greeter? Every shopper’s nightmare is completing a mystery shop at a location that does not make their employees wear nametags as part of their uniform, or makes the names on the tags so tiny that you are obviously staring at their chest, or lower, to ascertain the name.

If you are completing a high-end or apartment type of shop the associate should offer up a business card. If it’s not their personal card with their name on it most times they will write their name on it. After all they think you’re a sincere customer and want to make sure that when you buy, you buy from them so they can get the commission/credit.

There are a few techniques for getting a name when a card is not offered. First of all if you are completing an assignment where you should be getting a card anyway ASK for one. Make sure you give the associate enough time to offer one himself - if it becomes clear that they’re not just ask for one. If the associate is someone your own age ask something like, “Your name wouldn’t happen to be Steve would it?” They will usually respond with their name and ask you why. This is your opportunity to say something simple like, “Wow you just remind me of this guy I went to high school/band/chess club with.” If they are younger say that they look like a friend of your daughter/son. You get the idea. This technique works best if you practice sounding natural a bit. The next time you’re in a store approach an associate who is not already wearing a nametag and try to get their name.