Why was I not accepted to be a shopper for A Closer Look?
The first step to becoming a shopper for ACL is passing a
pre-application test. Once the test is passed and the application is submitted,
an ACL staff member reviews the information provided and evaluates the sample
narrative to determine if the applicant has followed directions (a critical
skill in being a mystery shopper). Among the things evaluated: has the
applicant 1) described a recent fine-dining or casual-dining experience; 2)
provided sufficient narrative to describe the experience; and 3) proofed and
spell-checked their submission for errors. Our clients require quality input
from our shoppers and ACL tries to identify those applicants that will meet our
high standards. It is an unfortunate thing that not all applicants can be
shoppers for ACL.
How much do you reimburse?
Each of our clients determines the maximum reimbursement they will pay
per visit. In most cases this will cover the cost of your visit, but in some
cases, it may not. However, you are free to spend more than the allowed
reimbursement amount. Some of our shops may also include a fee to you, in
addition to reimbursement. Before you self-assign any shop, you can see the
fee and/or reimbursement amount and determine whether you would like to accept
the assignment. This is also the case when you are emailed shop availability;
you determine whether the shop is something you would like to do and can view
the fee and/or reimbursement prior to accepting.
How will you know how much to reimburse me?
When you fill in the online questionnaire, you will be asked to include
the amount you paid (including tax and gratuities, valet or parking, etc.) on
page one. We will match this against the receipt you upload and attach online
to verify your reimbursement amount. Your actual reimbursement will be
calculated based on the client's set amount and allowed gratuity. You will
not be reimbursed for anything you spend over this calculated amount.
Will my reimbursement amount always cover the cost of my
visit?
Most of the hotels we represent reimburse for one night's lodging at
the hotel. Restaurant reimbursement levels are generally set at levels that
allow you to order and tip within limits. Various other hospitality and retail
shops reimburse a reasonable amount based on the level of detail and general
information to be obtained. Healthcare shops will typically cover the cost
of the service you are evaluating. There are exceptions, however, so it is
up to you to read the fee and/or reimbursement levels prior to accepting a shop.
When do you send out checks?
Checks are sent out on the 3rd Friday of the month AFTER the month of
your visit. Example: If your shop was performed on August 3rd, your check
will be mailed out the 3rd Friday of September.
Can I take others along with me to a restaurant or hotel?
Yes, as long as you adhere to the directions emailed to you. Some
restrictions may apply, so if in doubt, please contact
info@a-closer-look.com for
clarification.
Do you require a receipt?
Yes. Our preferred method of obtaining the receipt to verify reimbursement
amounts is for you to upload and attach the receipt to the questionnaire.
However, if you are unable to do this, you can attach the receipt to an email,
or fax it, or mail it to our corporate office. Be advised that failure to include
a receipt will prevent you from being reimbursed. The quickest method to insure
this doesn't happen is to attach the receipt online. Here are the alternate
methods (in order of preference):
Email: info@a-closer-look.com
Fax: 888-446-5660
Mail: A Closer Look, Inc.
460 South Peachtree St NW
Norcross, GA 30071
Do you assign shops? How does it work?
We do not assign shops, instead you assign yourself. Each month, between
the 20th and the 25th, we post upcoming shops for the next month. You can see
the full list of shops under Available Events after you log in as a shopper.
What about paying other companies to help us get assigned
to shops?
Much of the information available through companies that charge shoppers
a fee is available for free on web sites like
www.mysteryshop.org or www.volition.com.
Both of these sites are excellent resources to check for available shops as
well as general information links about mystery shopping. If you have paid a
fee for a list of shopping companies, consider getting your money back. Our
best advice is to never pay to shop!
What is shopper certification and why is it good for me?
Shopper certification is a means of standardizing the level of
competence for all shoppers. Through participation in our trade organization,
Mystery Shopping Providers Association (MSPA), the testing of skill levels
identifies which shoppers have what it takes to be an outstanding shopper for
us. The only certification that we accept are the Silver and Gold
certifications available through our trade organization,
MSPA. We do not recognize any other shopper certification.
|
|
 |