A new mystery shopper applied for an assignment without following the instructions. She quickly sent a request without being careful to proof her work. The scheduler sent a reply suggesting that the shopper take time to proof her requests and that she needed to complete an application before she could be considered for any assignments. The shopper sent a rude reply and became defensive when the scheduler was only trying to help. This shopper probably won't be successful at mystery shopping since he/she wasn't open to any constructive feedback.

Here are some details to keep in mind when you are asking a scheduler for an assignment:

1. You are not the only shopper requesting a job. You may be one of only a handful or maybe even dozens of emails. Depending on what state you live in, the scheduler may have hundreds of emails for various job requests. It is important to make your email look as professional as possible.
2. If the scheduler asked for specific information in the subject line, that is because it makes the requests easier to separate and file for each particular client.
3. If you are not qualified for an assignment, don't request it. There is a reason that a scheduler will ask for seasoned shoppers or is looking for people with particular skills.
4. If a scheduler actually takes the time to provide feedback or to request additional information, avoid being defensive and don't take the feedback personally. Schedulers are usually getting to the point very quickly and there isn't time to write lots of "fluff."
5. Carefully read all of the details in a job posting. There may be a date or day restriction. If you are reading a posting for a weekday lunch assignment and you are only free on Saturdays, avoid requesting the assignment.
6. It is important to be patient when requesting an assignment. The scheduler may have 40 other locations to fill before your location is examined. Never send a duplicate email or say you are applying for a job again since you did not receive a reply.
7. It is not uncommon to never receive a reply from a scheduler if you do not actually receive an assignment. Schedulers are dealing with numerous shoppers and there isn't enough time to reply to each shopper.
8. When you are requesting an assignment, list skills you possess that are relevant to the actual job. It is wonderful that you have three kids and you love your dog. Those details are not relevant to the assignment and won't help the scheduler understand if you are a skilled writer or have experience with the individual assignment.
Successful mystery shoppers are open to feedback and understand that not getting an assignment isn't personal. You would be amazed at the amount of "shopper chatter" on line that criticizes schedulers and complains about not getting assignments. Shoppers who are following common sense and taking time to look for assignments should not be having problems locating more work.