Reliability, honesty, authenticity, responsibility and trustworthiness need to be at the core of whatever assignment you take on, engage in and complete. This holds especially true, if you are expecting to get paid for doing so and engaging in this type of activity to earn a living, make a profit.

· Be punctual and stick to your deadlines, timelines and rather hand things in early, before it is due, than later or never, ask for postponements or give in to the temptation of NOT completing or following up. Acting in this manner can harm, or even ruin your reputation. Take pride in your work and follow through.

· Stick to the scheduled times and give the company or client what they asked for. Do not expect them to pay or compensate you for something other than what they asked for. Clarify and verify what exactly is required of you, what day, when and where and then deliver just that. Stick to what is asked of you and you are most likely to be asked again this is a surefire way to get MORE and repeat business.

Other considerations for Mystery Shopper

· Can you invest some money in generating leads, business and building your reputation, even paying to get the chance to do this, break into the industry etc.

· Can your cash-flow and lifestyle afford to help and support you if initially you are not making enough (or anything at first) as you establish the business.

· Can you await payment patiently for months or do you need cash now? Is this a business fit and solution RIGHT for you?

· Do you have enough time and energy to invest to make a success of this, to do what is required by the clients or companies you need to shop for incognito?

· Can you be flexible (including your schedule) ?

· Would you have time for follow-up, reporting back, filling out questionnaires, interviews, panels etc.

· When you plan, budget and arrange your schedule allow for time prior to to prepare and read what you have to do exactly, allowing for time to get to and from the location as well as fill out the reporting and completing the task/assignment in full?

· What happens if you have kids? Are they allowed to accompany you?

There are many and a variety of types of Mystery Shopper and companies, manifestations of this type of professional business service. It also results in not two companies wanting exactly the same, sharing standards, requirements, qualifying criteria etc. Some are more flexible and welcoming to newcomers than others, who want a certain amount of exposure, business expertise and more qualifying criteria.

You need to ask yourself what your motivation, stamina and determination is? What is your purpose, direction, goal, business and action plan to get to the place where you are satisfied, making money and a success of your Mystery Shopper? These types of questions will help you stay on track, monitor your progress and celebrate your success. You will also be able to see when, where and how you struggle and stagnate, tread water or when it is not lucrative for you to keep going.