Is It Ok To Take Children Along On Mystery Shops?

Mystery shopping is a flexible, part time activity that suits those who want a second income or that do not work full time. Many shoppers are stay at home mums who want to take their kids with them to mystery shop. Below is advice if you are in this situation.

As a mystery shopper, you are able to pick and choose assignments from companies once you are in their database of shoppers. If you receive a notification of a assignment in your area, first check with the scheduler if you can take your child(ren). Obviously, you would not take your child to a pub or bar. It is probably would not be wise to take children to a car dealers or bank. These types of assignments are usually quite detailed and require a greater amount of attention. Sometimes they can also be quite long. As parents know, long waits and children do usually go together.

For the most part, younger kids should be left at home when you are working. There are shops which are child friendly if it is imperative that you have them with you. Some places that would be more suitable include fast food, grocery stores, amusement parks, kids and baby stores, and family restaurant.

Another related issue is explaining to the child what you are doing. Do not suggest tell a younger child (under ten), about what you are doing. Mostly because kids forget, get excited, and generally tend to be too unpredictable. It would be a failed secret shop not to mention an embarrassment if your child told the assistant what you were up to! Older children (over ten) are generally better secret shoppers. They love to eat out, and generally are more controlled than younger kids. Also, people do not suspect older kids like they might an adult.

In the end, it is your business and it is up to you to decide the most appropriate way to shop. If in doubt, call the mystery shopping agency for advice on a particular assignment.

By: PJ Jefferson

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For information on Mystery Shopping and to begin the application process - click the link. Retail Active has many years experience in the mystery shopping sector and can offer you a fun and rewarding experience.