I read a lot on the forum about EPMS. I agree their reports are insane. I won't take a shop unless it is bonused because I know the reports are a PITA. However, I also read a lot about their lack of professionalism. I am dealing with them now about a shop I screwed up. I messed up on the phone part. I have to tell you, I cannot imagine how they could be more fair. They have asked me to redo the part I screwed up, told me they will be making note of this, and to be careful in the future. I have been warned that if I repeat this mistake, my pay will be deducted in the future. I screwed up. There is no question. If they told me the shop was not being used, they would be within their rights. So, the fact that they are willing to work with me leads me to believe they are free. I would love to know what other people have experienced and why they seem to be on a lot of shoppers' S-list.

Also, I read the same about Maritz. I really hate their shops and take very few. But that does not make them unprofessional. As an IC I am free to take or leave their shops. Having said that, I recently did a rebrand. One of the photos was not adequate. I got confused. The editor was not happy. And I got upset, thinking I would not be paid, etc. When we both calmed down, I asked her how she wanted me to proceed. I was driving and getting more upset by the minute, but then I calmed down. I got home and called her. She walked me through what she wanted. Nothing could have been more fair. I am not sure I will do that shop again, especially because winter is coming and I don't like the idea of standing outside taking photos, but heck. They worked with me, especially after I calmed down.

So, in both cases, what's the beef? Just curious.

Sounds like both companies were more than fair, but the point being not all shoppers have the same experience with the same companies. Maybe you have a long track record of good work with the MSC, maybe you dealt with a new employee that hasn't been jaded by this line of work yet, maybe you are a very patient person and are more tolerant than most.

Thats the great thing about a forum like this, anybody can post their experiences with a company and it is up to us as informed shoppers to read their post and determine our own truth. Bottom line is that even the best MSC will be criticized by some and the worst MSC will have a few supporters.

My own experience has been great with BARE, done quite a few jobs and no issues. However with Maritz I was deactivated before I could do a job for them, scheduled first job then had to go out of town for a funeral and could not get ahold of anyone and left several messages. My only response was a canned e-mail stating I had been deactivated due to missing an assigment and I have tried contacting them since then and never got any response.

I have enjoyed Maritz for years. During the winter I take my pics from the car window...

Never worked for EPMS, but one of the things that I personally do not like and tend to shy away from are in-depth narratives.

I personally have never had problems with any Maritz shop that I have done. From that aspect, they are a great company. My beefs with them are:

- Frequent solicitation-style phone calls from schedulers, to the point that I changed my phone number in their system to 000-000-0000
- Inability to see/sort shops by the last due date, rather than soonest available
- Inability to report shop data and invoice in one step
- Lack of direct deposit/electronic payment option
- Lack of bonused/incentivized shop offers on their electronic board

Basically, it's all convenience/electronic interface stuff. Maritz is not a BAD company to work for, but they're not the most convenient company either.

Just for information, if you don't want to put your phone number in anything, just put all 9's(999-999-9999) and it normally works.

These are two of my favorite companies to shop for, but I do have complaints.

EPMS employees tend to be terse to the point of rudeness in their emails. They should learn to say "please" and "thank you." Elementary manners go a long way. Also, there have been multiple times where I spent days trying to reach a target agent, only to be informed that the target no longer works there. EPMS simply cancels the shops without even a thank you, while I've wasted my time and cell phone minutes for zero pay.

My gripe with Maritz is that there have been occasional unwritten changes in shop instructions. They haven't been anything major, but it's a hassle to have to provide some redundant piece of information across a dozen shops, when previously that extra step wasn't required, and no one bothered to tell me of the change. And, as David pointed out, their website is far from user friendly.

I have some complaints with both MSCs also, but nothing major. However, I have read some very harsh things about both. Very few MSCs are anywhere near perfect (and with them, you hit a rotation!) so, I stick with the less than perfect. EPMS and Maritz, even with their faults, seem to fall into this less than perfect category.

I just had a conversation with the editor on the shop I just did. She fixed it for me. Yes, her email was terse, but geeeeeeeeeeeze, she fixed the problem for me. She told me on the phone that she was simply telling me and wanted me to learn from the mistake for future reference. Can't get better than that. And I actually found out how they handle deductions. Also, she told me that overall my reports are a pleasure to edit. She said she reads some that are so poorly written and contradictory she is ready to pull her hair out.

Again, they are not perfect. But if I waited for perfect I would starve. LOL

I had this happen also. EPMS relies on shoppers to learn the whereabouts of the agent targeted for the shop, then does not pay us for this research. If EPMS is really working for these companies why doesn't it know where the agents work? Are shoppers the only ones that EPMS is defrauding? The contract is to shop a location and a target at the location, not to determine whether the agent is working there/where the agent is at for zero pay. These practices are symptoms of a bigger problem. What are they doing with the information we gather? Are they getting paid by the competition (which would be a higher rate than the actual company doing quality control). Are we helping the company or spying on the company for some unknown corporation? Well, bottomline is we aren't getting paid for our work and that is illegal. EPMS plans their shops in a way that extracts free labor through fraud.

Wana--This is very strong language, which is why I started this post. Seems like some folks absolutely hate EPMS. Of course, everyone is entitled to their opinion, but I just can't agree. I have never NOT been paid by EPMS. And, in fact, I'm getting paid 100% for a shop that I screwed up, in part. I have had a difficult time finding the target sometimes, but it has always worked out. I have called the office, explained the situation, been put on hold, and then--almost always--been given permission to ask for the target by name. One time, I figured out the target went by a nickname. I called and explained. They called the client and confirmed and gave me permission to ask for the target by the new name. Was I annoyed, sure. But I got an extension on the shop and I was paid in full.


wana Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> I had this happen also. EPMS relies on shoppers to
> learn the whereabouts of the agent targeted for
> the shop, then does not pay us for this research.
> If EPMS is really working for these companies why
> doesn't it know where the agents work? Are
> shoppers the only ones that EPMS is defrauding?
> The contract is to shop a location and a target at
> the location, not to determine whether the agent
> is working there/where the agent is at for zero
> pay. These practices are symptoms of a bigger
> problem. What are they doing with the information
> we gather? Are they getting paid by the
> competition (which would be a higher rate than the
> actual company doing quality control). Are we
> helping the company or spying on the company for
> some unknown corporation? Well, bottomline is we
> aren't getting paid for our work and that is
> illegal. EPMS plans their shops in a way that
> extracts free labor through fraud.

It is unfortunate that some have hatred in their hearts. It is unfortunate that some lie, cheat, and steal from others. We all have free will and people make choices. I am grateful to those who warn me about crime and glad to do the same for others. I was a victim of EPMS fraud and don't want anyone else to be a fraud victim. Sharing information can help to avoid conflict.

Again, I have never NOT been paid by EPMS. In fact, I have never had much of a hassel with them. As I said, I screwed up on a shop and they worked with me. I receive payment as promised. Of course, I hate their ridiculous reports...think they're excessive. But, I don't see that as fraud. I am free to turn down their shops if I don't like them. Now that I know how long the reports are, I never do shops for them unless I am in the are doing something else in the area AND I know I'll have plenty of time.

Accusing anyone of criminal behavior is serious business. If I suspected such, I'd take it up with the DA where I lived.

Happy Holidays to all.

Jersey

In my opinion, both of the MSCs mentioned in this thread are the epitome of professionalism.

As to Maritz, I never accept their shops for the stated amount because I don't work for those wages. When they call though , I'm guessing we come to an agreement on 1/2 the jobs they offer, but folks, that's business.

Ellis, for whom I've been shopping for almost 6 yrs., merely asks that you approach business as business; I've not a speck of trouble with that request.
Although I've probably worked with 2 dozen EPMS associates, the 4 that stick out in my mind as belonging on the "top shelf" are Bob Asher, Vanessa Dickerson, Dana Stewart and Sheila Weaver. Folks, this is a winning foursome, as each has always been more than willing to go "the extra mile" when I've had a need. Can a shopper ask for more; I think not!

Thanks Shopperbob

I was beginning to think I was the only shopper who felt this way. I am not sure where all the vitriole comes from.

I love negotiating with both MSCs. Maritz calls me on a regular basis. I usually get a bonus (or incentive, as they like to call it) for the shop or I don't do it. Same with EPMS. I know what fee makes the travel, the shop itself, and the LOONNG, report worthwhile for me.

Happy Shopping and
Happy Hanukah

shopperbob Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> In my opinion, both of the MSCs mentioned in this
> thread are the epitome of professionalism.
>
> As to Maritz, I never accept their shops for the
> stated amount because I don't work for those
> wages. When they call though , I'm guessing we
> come to an agreement on 1/2 the jobs they offer,
> but folks, that's business.
>
> Ellis, for whom I've been shopping for almost 6
> yrs., merely asks that you approach business as
> business; I've not a speck of trouble with that
> request.
> Although I've probably worked with 2 dozen EPMS
> associates, the 4 that stick out in my mind as
> belonging on the "top shelf" are Bob Asher,
> Vanessa Dickerson, Dana Stewart and Sheila Weaver.
> Folks, this is a winning foursome, as each has
> always been more than willing to go "the extra
> mile" when I've had a need. Can a shopper ask for
> more; I think not!

I am glad that you recovered the relationship with EPMS. They can burn in a hole as far as I am concerned.

Don



jersey07032 Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> I read a lot on the forum about EPMS. I agree
> their reports are insane. I won't take a shop
> unless it is bonused because I know the reports
> are a PITA. However, I also read a lot about
> their lack of professionalism. I am dealing with
> them now about a shop I screwed up. I messed up
> on the phone part. I have to tell you, I cannot
> imagine how they could be more fair. They have
> asked me to redo the part I screwed up, told me
> they will be making note of this, and to be
> careful in the future. I have been warned that if
> I repeat this mistake, my pay will be deducted in
> the future. I screwed up. There is no question.
> If they told me the shop was not being used, they
> would be within their rights. So, the fact that
> they are willing to work with me leads me to
> believe they are free. I would love to know what
> other people have experienced and why they seem to
> be on a lot of shoppers' S-list.
>
> Also, I read the same about Maritz. I really hate
> their shops and take very few. But that does not
> make them unprofessional. As an IC I am free to
> take or leave their shops. Having said that, I
> recently did a rebrand. One of the photos was not
> adequate. I got confused. The editor was not
> happy. And I got upset, thinking I would not be
> paid, etc. When we both calmed down, I asked her
> how she wanted me to proceed. I was driving and
> getting more upset by the minute, but then I
> calmed down. I got home and called her. She walked
> me through what she wanted. Nothing could have
> been more fair. I am not sure I will do that shop
> again, especially because winter is coming and I
> don't like the idea of standing outside taking
> photos, but heck. They worked with me, especially
> after I calmed down.
>
> So, in both cases, what's the beef? Just curious.

peace on earth.

I just completed 3 shops for epms. what a nightmare they are. the forms are redundant. how many times can I describe the same thing? I had trouble because their server couldent handle an upload at 5 pm. I tried 6 times. then I get an email asking if I know the rules. wth???? I cant do any more for them, it's like making3 bucks an hour with a lot of bs. I emailed them back stating their inefficient server was not my issue but theirs.

I'm not sure what to think about EPMS at this point.

Tuesday they called me to see if I could do an emergency shop for them. I was out on a circuit but was close to the property and could just squeeze it in before my next scheduled shop. The target was not on property though so when I texted the scheduler she extended the shop until the next day.

Yesterday I made an appointment with the target but she stood me up.

I've sent a text, three emails to two different EPMS employees, and updated the status on the shopper's report asking if this shop can be postponed until Monday which is the next time I have a free slot.

They haven't had the curtesy to respond.

At this point I give their professionalism a thumbs.

Last Saturday I had an apartment shop through another mystery shopping company. The Leasing Agent stood me up. It is not being rescheduled as I waited for 30 minutes so the job is considered completed and I'm being paid in full.

Lisa can you email me the name of the company?epms is just a waste of time.

I still don't get it folks. I have problems with shops, I call. No, I don't suppose anyone there is going to win the Dale Carnegie award for sweetness, but the issues are always resolved. Payment is timely. I don't know what I am doing right, but I hope I keep doing it. Same with Maritz. PITA but fair.

We have been doing EPMS and Maritz for years, never ever problems. In fact during problematic weather and disasters such as hurricanes/tornadoes, floods, they have been more than generous with time frames and such.

I have never found either company to NOT be helpful. I admit I am not always crazy about their shops,and sometimes I lose my patience, but they have always been reasonable and fair. I have screwed up on shops and they have helped me, worked with me, etc. I am glad not everyone agrees--more shops for me.

cdmdjd Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> We have been doing EPMS and Maritz for years,
> never ever problems. In fact during problematic
> weather and disasters such as
> hurricanes/tornadoes, floods, they have been more
> than generous with time frames and such.

I ended up getting one slightly snitty email (from someone I had emailed explaining the situation) and an automated email, both asking why I hadn't completed the shop.

Ummm....well, I've already written this out for you guys four times in four different places...

Late today I got an another email from one of them saying the target wasn't working there anymore and the shop was canceled.

So I did a recorded audio phone shop for them, made 6 other phone calls trying to reach the target, drove to the property twice, wasted time at the property with another agent before I could make an excuse and get out of there and I've got zilch to show for it.

Honestly, I'm staying pretty busy with shops that I enjoy and with way less hassle.

$25- $50 a shop sounds great up front, but when you factor in all the back and forth crapola and that gawd-awful clunky website...

I think for now I'm just going leave the EPMS shops for someone who likes them.

yep, the shops can be a PITA all right. Folks posting they don't care for this type of shop is just fine IMHO. What I don't get--and frankly,don't appreciate, is the vitriole. One poster came close to accusing them of crimes against humanity, for goodness sake. I say, keep it in perspective. I often need a break from EPMS and Maritz shops...Hell, if someone would just GIVE me money, I would take a break from all of them. Still, they are decent people.

I love Maritz! I've done about 10 shops for them, a few bonused, and never had a problem.

I just got an email from my EPMS scheduler. Time stamped 10:33pm.

Saying - Wednesday is almost over I have an apartment shop needing completion, if you can help call xxx-xxx-xxxx and I will assign it you to! (sic)

The location is 80 miles from me.

Do y'all think I can make it? LOLOL

This just adds to my perspective that this is not the most professional group out there...

I do whatever EPMS apartment shops I can get, and most of the time I haven't had many problems even with the targeted agents. But I DO get emails a lot of the time telling me I MUST begin calling. I always email back that the instructions say: Call and visit same day. This time at least I got a reply from the scheduler apologizing that she'd missed that in her read. But they've always been helpful if I run into problems.

The only MAJOR complaint I have is those bloody ridiculous reports!!! Can they ask the same things MORE times and expect to get different wording for the same things over and over. I get dizzy.

I finally emailed to "suggestions" and 'suggested' the forms might better be revised to make them less redundant and more concise, which I feel would be helpful to both the ICs and the client. I got a reply that it'll be taken up at their next meeting. Ha! I'm not going to hold my breath.

What I really find rude though is the report page asking questions to PROVE you were really there, like was there a police or ambulance emergency at the time. How often do they expect that will happen? I think the questions are demeaning and totally distrustful. Where do they think we get the business card to submit? Maybe it would be more considerate and helpful to all if they asked for a date/time stamped photo of the place?

Those questions really through me for a loop. In my case it was a video shop and it appears the reports are the same for written and video. Since for the most part they are seeing what I am seeing, it's a bit superfluous.

I was initially shocked that they would ask me to prove I was there but someone (sorry, forgot who) suggested it was to protect us from agents saying we weren't there. I have actually talked to the folks at EPMS about this and who ever made that suggestion was on the right track. EPMS has had trouble with some shops in that the agent claims the shopper just came in, picked up a card, and didn't take the tour. I admit EPMS can handle some things in a less snitty way, but there motives are good. And, for those who are texting--remember the schedulers are all working from home. You might be texting a home number. I have suggested many times, call the EPMS office. You will get someone who should a) take a Dale Carnegie course and b) will help you. There is no reason on earth they would only help me and not the rest of you.

I have done three apartment shops for Remington, and I will go with EPMS every time. Maybe it is my ADD, but I have never found anything to be so confusing in my life. Here is the short form

a) send an email. They tell you if you need to send it from Rent.com or Apartments.com etc. Sounds nice, but then you have to remember to use the right one and you have to remember what you said because it has to be consistent in the report. You have to use an alias and another email and phone number. They tell you what to say.
b) take a screen shot of your email. you have to cut and paste or upload it on the report.
c) keep track of any confirmations re: the email
d) keep track of how long it took you to get a response from the property.
e) answer questions concerning the tone and content of the email
d) call the property. you are supposed to call the same day. The scheduler has told me to ignore that.
f) when you get the target, ask about prices.
g) fill out dozens of questions and a lengthy narrative about the phone call. The narrative cannot leave anything out. What did you say. What did s/he say.
h) do the shop. Ask Fair Housing questions at the end.
i) fill out the report, which contains lots of repetitive questions and several narratives
j) upload the business card, the application, brochures, floor plans, other material you received from the agent
k) send an invoice. The shops pay $35 plus $7 if you get it within 12 hours. I did not get my $7 because they had to ask for details. I left out the transition from how the agent greeted me to how she led me out of the office to take the tour.

more to the point, I have received absolutely contradictory messages from the scheduler, the editor, and the owner. I have also received duplicate and even triplicate requests for information. And, finally, my pet peeve. I have been deducted on my rating for spelling errors, when the errors were theirs, not mine. For example, they had the agents name spelled on way. I spelled it the way it appeared on her card!

so,unless someone can convince me it's just my ADD, I am sticking with EPMS. Of course, I am limited by rotation and distance as to how many shops I can do for them (and they are not so generous with bonuses these days). Bare has apartment shops but they are not near where I live and they don't pay enough to justify the travel time and expense.


hurrumph.

I've done two shops for EPMS(they aren't very active in my area, Montana)..both have been great. The first was a regular call and onsite visit for anyone. That went fine, paid $40 bucks so it was definately worth it as it was in my town.

THen they emailed me to ask if I would do a video shop(something I have never done) that was in a city 160 miles away...I said yes as it paid $150 and would get me experience with video shops.

It ended up snowing hard the night before I was scheduled to go to the video shop, I had already made my recorded call the day before and my car wasn't going to make it up and over the mountain pass to get to the shop(I got stuck in my local gas stations parking lot lol). So I called Robert Asher and he said no problem keep the equipment a bit longer and do the shop the next day(as the roads would be better and I could borrow a better suited vehicle). I was nervous about the video shop and it very windy on the site but everything turned out well and I was paid right on time.

Thought the reports were pretty easy actually, I've had other shops for different compainies just dealing with a shopping job that were longer than EPMS's.