shopperpro

Onsite visit - You’ve made your appointment and are going to visit the community. If you have time before your appointment you might want to just fill out the phone call portion of your report now if the company’s report system is one that you can save like Sassie. If that made absolutely no sense I’ll explain it to you after I get done with the apartment shops. Good for you - you’re on your way! Some things to remember here might seem like common sense, but you would not believe the horror stories I’ve heard.

* Be on time for your appointment. If you are late this may upset your consultant and it is not a fair report. If you are running late call and tell them when to expect you. You also want to make sure that they are still available to give you your tour.

* Try not to visit during 12-2 (lunchtime) or near 5PM as the consultant may be more rushed or cranky at these times. Be honest - when you miss your lunch aren’t you cranky?

* When you first enter the leasing office there will be a LOT that you have to keep track of. How did the consultant greet you? Did they stand? Did they offer their hand? Did they smile? Did they make eye contact? Did they offer you a cookie/beverage? Note the time down discreetly before you leave your car.

* Clean out the inside of your car before your visit. Some consultants are trained to try to get a peek in your vehicle. They do this not only to see if you’re the mystery shopper, but the theory is messy car = messy renter and you will be charged a higher security deposit.

* As you enter the community pay attention to the signs leading to the leasing office. Are you lost? Make a note of it. Is there a lot of trash? Do you see the mail area or dumpster? Make a note of it.

To be continued…I told you these were complicated shops. Not to worry - like anything else in mystery shopping at first it is daunting, but after you do a few it becomes second nature.