I would have a field day correcting their spelling and grammar on emails, checklists, instructions, etc. Then, I would like to give them a grade on those
papers. Oh my, the D's and E's would be flying! They give us a grade, so I recommend tit for tat!
shop 4 you listed 2 of the things I get frustrated about: the 1 penny missing on a purchase and the ridiculous reports, where you have to answer the questions by checking boxes and then have to write the same answers again in long hand. If we answered the question once, why do we need to answer it again, or do they just want to see if we still know how to write a sentence. They could wait for our 500 word description of the shop they demand, couldn't they? We have to write sentences for that. Some reports are short and to the point, but most tend to be lengthy with repetitive questions. I don't know who makes up the reports. It would be interesting to find out.
AND,(from sneakers and), in the application process, there is no way to tell if you will have tolerant schedulers, get prompt payment or flexibility if life intervenes. You only find that out after your application is accepted and you do a few jobs for them. At that point, you can start compiling their track record.
The only help we have is to read the forums to see who's saying what about whom.
I find that one company may have a few great shedulers and a few others that I avoid at all costs. This a phenomenon of MSing. You don't know which MSPs have shops in your area. Shadow Shopper can be good for that, using the bronze membership, but my recommendation is to apply with companies listed on Volition or right here on the pages of this forum. Jacob has over 200 MSPs listed here. He also lists many scheduling companies and some sassieshops.
I want schedulers who return phone calls and answer emails, especially when you need immediate help. I'm lucky to have a couple of schedulers that I just chat with by phone or email about anything under the sun. I love them and I do learn some very interesting information from them. Heaven knows how they stay sane doing their jobs.
I need to know about the editors also. Here again, you don't know how tough or lenient they are, until you get your first, graded reports back.
I want to know that the MS company treats their ICs with courtesy and respect and is on our side. I want them to find a way to fix a mistake and bend over backward to find a way to pay us - NOT a way to get out of paying us.
My mother used to say if wishes were fishes, we'd all be swimming and I fear that's how I feel things will remain in this endeavor of ours. I do think it's a good idea to have frequent contact with your schedulers, by email or phone, so that they get to know you and vice versa. Let them know you are favorably impressed with the good work they're doing on your behalf.
My eyes are drooping and my mind is falling asleep, (maybe that's the way it is always - how terrible!) so I'm going to stop looking for other things to add on and put myself to bed.
Sandilynn