Mystery Shopping

Travel Scoop, Vp;.21, No. 6 July/August 2003

Some of you may have heard of a company called Sensors Quality Management Inc. The company was formed as a result of businesses requiring a third party to conduct independent evaluations of their operations. Hitherto the fields in which this company has offered its services have been in retail merchandising, restaurants, hotels and so on.

The company is now searching for individuals who would be interested in “mystery shopping” aboard planes and trains in return for half-priced travel. In order to take advantage of the reduced fares, the inspector must successfully fill out a number of evaluation forms, generally 8-12 forms, with between 25-50 questions, most of the ‘yes/no/not applicable’ variety together with some miscellaneous notes. The questions will deal with the experience of making reservations, boarding, cleanliness of washrooms, food and beverage service, etc. Upon completion of the evaluations the inspector will be reimbursed 50% of the cost of the ticket.

Details of SQM can be found on line at www.sqm.ca where visitors to the site can read a variety of articles that have appeared in the Canadian press countrywide. Then, to become eligible as an inspector, candidates should complete the on-line application form “Becoming A Mystery Shopper”, after which applicants should e-mail Betty James at betty@sqm.ca, writing “Travel Shops” in the subject line.