Need a really simple first shop

I have read and read, and am scared to death to make my first shop. I need to start slowly, and get accustomed to how this is done, before I head into the long checklist and report type shops. Do you have any suggestions for some very simple shops that I can start out with?

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My first two shops, back in 2005 were a simple bank inquiry and a fast food shop. The bank was a breeze, although I was very nervous, of course. I hated the spli second timings for the fast food shop and never have done more than a couple a year since then.

Others will have other favs, as this is very personal.

But the best advice is to start with baby steps, just on shop per day, but to try a few different types of shops.Just START!

Based in MD, near DC
Shopping from the Carolinas to New York
Have video cam; will travel

Poor customer service? Don't get mad; get video.

Thank you! Baby steps will definitely be the case.

Hi lindahale,

Simpler ones include convenience stores, gas stations (if you are comfortable with photos), banks, some grocery stores, maybe cell phones, and telephone shops (calling someone). Try to get the instructions before applying. Some MSPs provide this as a matter of course, some will do so on request.

Also I would ask, "What are you good at?" If you have banking experience, then banking shops should be easy for you. If you waited tables, especially in a corporate restaurant, then counter style or fast food restaurant shops should be a piece of cake. Consider seeking out something you have experience with for that first shop. But by all means go out and do one.

Once you get one, read the instructions forward and backward until you know them by heart. Consider a dry run at another store or perhaps a competitor's store (if that makes sense).

Nervousness is to be expected. Have fun with it.

Happily shopping Rhode Island and nearby Massachusetts and Connecticut

I started last March. My scheduler hooked me when she said I had to check out the bathrooms. I've checked out every bathroom possible since I was 3 and offered up critiques. LOL. I've since realized its a genetic issue, my Dad and brother aren't as willing to be as descriptive as I've always been, but are extremely descriptive when the restroom doesn't meet their standards. I was also a travel consultant for a minimum of 14 years, knowing where clean bathrooms were located all over the world was essential. (Thank heavens for McDonalds!)

My advice...Jump in & take the plunge. If this work is your cup of tea, you won't regret it. You'll know soon enough.

Good Luck

Live your life in such a way that when your feet hit the floor in the morning; the devil shudders...And yells OH #%*+! SHE'S AWAKE!

My first shop was a car dealership. I was very comfortable doing it because I love cars and am quite knowledgeable. No stress really for me on site.

My first shop was fast food with just one timing involved. I laugh when I think about how nervous I was, sitting in front of the hamburger place and going over my paperwork to make sure I had all the details correct. After it was over and the report was filed my confidence went up and I tried a DIY shop with some narrative involved. Same thing, nervous at first and then the feeling of relief when I realized it was much easier than my imagination had devised. I still get the jitters when doing a first time shop - part of the territory for me - but I know it is not as bad as it seems and you just do it. Good luck and remember that most of us have gotten nervous : ) .....

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Need a really simple first shop

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