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. Health & Wellness 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. You must upload and attach your receipt to the online questionnaire when you submit it to us. You will need a scanner, digital camera, or some other
method to obtain an image of your receipt. Be advised that failure to include a receipt will prevent you from being reimbursed.
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.
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