Of the merchandising companies that require independent contractor status, "applying" is very much like most of the mystery shopping companies "application process; online, on their website, fill out your name, address and some other basic information and if there's work in your area you click the radio button and you're up and running. With Lawrence, Acosta, Crossmark and other companies where they hire you as an employee the process is not as easy; and it shouldn't be. They need to make sure you are who you say you are and hopefully drug test you (unlike many companies who do not) so you don't make a mess of their (and my) reputation. There are categories of merchandising companies and Lawrence is one of the bottom feeders for sure, but if you're broke you can work for them and get away with doing the minimal amount it is to survive.