Help with scenario?

I am very new to mystery shopping, just about a month in. I've completed a handful of shops and received positive feedback. I just signed up for a shop that has been on the board for a while. Now that I have accepted and can see all of the guidelines, I'm a little concerned that I'm not going to blow my cover immediately. This is a shop where I am supposed to evaluate security personnel who may be anywhere on the premises. If they are not immediately available, I am supposed to attempt to call them on a security phone or have staff call them. The scenarios offered include things such as asking for directions to a local shop, or needing a jump for my car. Just wondering if anyone can offer advice on how to make this work? I can't quite convince myself that the scenarios offered make sense (I'd think the staff would see through these because it doesn't make sense that I'd specifically ask for security and not just ask the first person I contact). This is the first shop that makes me nervous. Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

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Well, you might want to have an escort to your car if you are doing the shop in the evening hours when it is dark. But directions to another store sound like the easiest scenario.

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/09/2016 11:56PM by JASFLALMT.

I would indicate that when I was arriving I felt I was being followed by a white panel truck (or whatever color vehicle was behind you as you pulled into the parking lot) and although I don't see the vehicle in the lot, I would like security to keep an eye on the lot as I depart and try to get a tag number if that vehicle follows me out.

I did one of these about six months ago. It was at a hospital that I am familiar with. Security personnel are easy to spot by their uniform, so it wasn't too hard to seek one out. A scenario that I had available was to ask about long term parking for an extended stay. The interaction was very natural and this was a pretty easy shop. I would do more of these, but it seems like they are always wanting morning or evening hours that don't work with my schedule.

The best advice I would give is to be familiar with their uniform and go up to one of them and ask your question. I do think it would come off a bit odd to walk up to regular staff and ask to talk to security (unless you use the escort me to my car scenario). The hospital I most frequently visit usually has security people posted in or around the main entrance. Just look for them and they will likely be right there. Just don't look too suspicious, or they might find you first!

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Could I have a receipt please?

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/10/2016 01:14AM by InPlainSight.

Thanks all! You've given me some good options. I very much appreciate it. Feeling like I can do this now...

Just wanted to follow up to thank those of you who responded to my post. I was really imagining the worst. The shop turned out fine and rated 10/10. I did have some difficulty locating the target. Had to wander the halls a bit. Finally went out the back door and located him. Felt very conspicuous. And I had to drive back after I got home and realized I'd forgotten to take a photo. At least it was very close to home.

Congratulations! Glad it worked out for you and that the MSC was pleased as well.

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Help with scenario?

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