4M inquires--how many companies have you fired overall and how many do you work for?
BOB'S reply--I've fired 8, and although it wasn't asked, 4 have terminated me; the 2nd part of the above query is more difficult to answer. As an example, I've completed 297 shops for Quest 4 Best, but nothing in the past 2 yrs.; this due to the MSC having nothing available in my area. The total number of companies for whom I completed at least one assignment in the preceding 12 mos. is 17.
4M states--Your willingness to treat MSing as a serious business is admirable and you do apply a very sound business analysis in your posts.
BOB'S reply--Thank you for those kind words. My approach to the business works for me, but, as I've previously posted, I failed in my attempt to establish this profession as a full time endeavor. It was only after I realized that my mark would be made as a part-timer, that success visited me.
When considering an assignment, I determine the minimum fee that's acceptable and don't budge. Last month, as an example, an MSC, for whom I've yet to complete any work, contacted me with a proposal; I responded with my fee requirement. The scheduler informed me that her company doesn't permit shoppers to set fees. I answered her statement by mentioning it was she who had contacted me. That terminated the exchange and I may never hear from those folks again; so be it!
In closing this reply, I'm reminded of a condition that once, and may still, existed to be considered for the MSPA SHOPPER OF THE YEAR award: A willingness to accept work, that one doesn't desire, for an MSC (a paraphrase). That removed me from the running. After all, this IS business and I attend to Bob's needs.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 09/25/2013 01:43PM by shopperbob.