Feb 14 2009
Mystery shop - the announced audit Pt. 2
Generally you will need a good digital camera to perform an announced audit. You will need to know in advance how to transfer your pictures from your camera to your computer, how to resize your pictures, and how to upload them successfully to your mystery-shopping site. Most mystery shopping companies will have detailed instructions on how to resize and upload for each assignment that requires pictures. I don’t have any fancy software for picture resizing - I just use Microsoft paint. Now is also the time to invest in a good clipboard if you don’t already have one. You will need something to write on and keep your paperwork organized while you are performing the audit.
When you arrive at the location your first move should be to introduce yourself to the store manager and present him/her with your letter of introduction that is included with your assignment paperwork. You’ve already read over all of the instructions and guidelines so you should have a good idea of where to start with your observations. If the manager’s input is needed ask if they have the time available - if they don’t be prepared to wait. Most of the audit guidelines will have instructions on how long to wait and if an associate can answer the specified questions if the manager is busy.
To be continued…
Happy Valentine’s Day! I swear I meant to cover restaurant mystery shopping in time for the holiday, but I’ll get to that in the next few weeks or so. 
