Linda_16571252227629 @ Apr 17, 2023, 4:28:21 PM

I do two Costco locations per week. One location I've been doing for about a year and a half now, the other I've done several times. In both locations, I have been approached by management and just told them I was scanning to ensure accuracy on the apps they use for personal shopping (Instacart or similar). Both locations have allowed me to carry on with no problem since those contacts. On the other hand, I had to give up three locations (one at a time, as twice a week is plenty for Costco scans!) because they claimed their "regional management" said it wasn't allowed. All five of these locations are in the Greater Detroit area, so it's likely they all have the same management team. Still, I've been welcome at the two I have now for an extended amount of time and just walk in like any other worker. I'm even getting friendly with various staff at one of them to the point of joking around, texting about a new baby, etc. I'm really happy with the two locations I have, although one is pretty far and had been "undesirable" due to distance, but I was running out of local stores and missed that income. I just think to myself that the bonus covers gas and travel time pretty well. Plus, since it's Spring, I don't have to worry about bad weather driving. I've only had one manager that was actually mean to me, thinking I was a spy before throwing me out. Fine. Whatever. Someone else will scoop up that location and hopefully be able to maintain it. The other two that asked me to leave were exceedingly nice and it was a pleasant exchange when caught. I dress comfortably, take nothing more than a fanny pack with the days essentials (including back up battery, cord, VISA card, meds, wet wipes, band aids, whatever). I also bring a bottle of water to carry around so I'm not constantly putting 73 cent drinks on my card. I like to get one thing (lunch or drink) from there just in case GPS isn't working so I have a receipt as back up that I was actually there at the time and date assigned. When I started, I was dragging a cart along and it was wildly cumbersome. I don't do that anymore, and since they've come to expect me now, I don't need to.

How long does it take you on average to complete this shop?

Does anyone know if you get reimbursed for the food as well on these shops? The shop pays $90 but the $90 doesn't actually cover the requirements of the shop. If any knows much about these shops please let me know! I've listed the actual shop below.

Please review our Shopper Agreement to ensure that your assignment is approved for payment:

https://www.360-relay.com/shopper-zone/shopper-agreement/

PURCHASE REQUIREMENTS

- 2 Alcoholic Beverages

- 1 Appetizer (*Feature Starter, Appetizer or Salads)

- 2 Different Entrees (*Steaks, Other Specialties, Seafood, Sandwiches)

GUEST AND SHOPPING AREA

- You must call to make a reservation through the recorded line.

- You must remain in the Dining Room for the entire shop (do not sit at the bar).

- This shop must be conducted with at least 1 adult guest

- Additional items and guests are welcome

RECORDED CALL

- To record your call, click visit details and enter your phone number in the box provided. If using the mobile app, click the red "Record Call" button to enter your number. The system will call your number and you will be prompted to press "1" on your dialpad to connect you with the assigned location. Do not call the location directly, you must enter your phone number into the system to make your call.

PAYMENT

-You can pay with cash or a credit card

PHOTO REQUIREMENTS

- Photos of ALL food and beverages ordered during the shop. Before any sips, bites taken, as received.

- Itemized Receipt

*Your photo should contain both your itemized and credit card receipt so we can show proof of tip. Minimum 20% gratuity is required. You may tip more if you'd like. If you tip in cash, take a photo of the cash next to the receipt.

IMPORTANT REPORTING AND OBSERVATION

- This is an upscale dining shop. The atmosphere is meant to be elegant and welcoming; with a focus on service and food quality.

- This report must be very detailed, or it will be sent back to you! Any answer that is not answered as Agree, must be explained. Restaurant video surveillance may be used to confirm shop details, so be as accurate as possible in your timing and descriptions.

- Obtain the names and/or detailed descriptions of all staff members that you interact with. Pay attention to the manager (describe what the manager was during around the restaurant). Male managers are dressed in suits with bow ties. Female managers are in suits without bow ties and could easily be confused with host staff/servers. If you are unsure if a female is a server/host or a manager, describe her in the report.

- Bring it to your server's attention that you have an allergy (real or made up) and they should tell the manager on duty. This should prompt a visit from the manager to your table, so you can note the interaction in your shop report.

- You are evaluating the overall food quality, customer service and cleanliness of the establishment. Visit the restroom to evaluate for cleanliness as well. Please check the restroom during the meal to evaluate if the staff re-folded your dinner napkin while you were away from the table.

Thanks

Sariah_16827284088372 @ May 25, 2023, 6:41:57 PM

You don't actually make money off of these usually. You're supposed to see it as more of a discount as per this welcome video. Introduction to Mystery Shopping with iSecretShop - YouTube

Thank you for your insight!