Sports Enthusiasts - Merchandisers

As a Sell-Through Specialist (STS) you will have the opportunity to work with some of the leading brands within the sporting goods industry. As the expert, you will service multiple retail channels on behalf of the clients within a fixed territory. The ultimate goal is to Create Sell-Through for the clients by accomplishing the following:

Foster positive interactions with store personnel through strong relationship building tactics
In-Store Merchandising tasks such as stock merchandise and POG set/maintenance
On-Site reporting initiatives through timely and accurate data collection & photo documentation

QUALIFICATIONS

• Merchandising or retail experience with an emphasis on product presentation
• Solid understanding of merchandising terms and tasks
• Familiarity with third-party merchandising and retail store operations
• Conduct business as an independent contractor. FRS doesn’t employ merchandisers!
• Navigate Microsoft Office applications and web-based systems
• Access to reliable and insured vehicle with a valid driver’s license
• Possession of digital camera with time/date stamp feature

Apply here: Sports Enthusiasts - Merchandisers

by Michelle Brown

Retail Merchandiser - Nationwide (immediate interviews)

NOW HIRING IMMEDIATE INTERVIEWS
Part Time Flexible Hours Make your own Schedule Paid training
Retail Merchandising Specialist 

Come be a part of Channel Partners' stellar team of service-certified specialists Channel Partners offers several job types so you can find one to match your skills. We offer employee training and certificate programs so you can be the best. Our people are the heart of our culture, and we are continuously seeking employees to live our values and have a passion for our clients.

Channel Partners is the BDSmktg brand Team that offers Merchandising and reset Services to many retail companies. Our clients include top brand names including many Fortune 500 companies.

We offer excellent pay, paid mileage and also bonus programs.

PURPOSE
The responsibility of the Merchandising Specialist will be to professionally represent our clients image through product merchandising and the introduction of new product in retail for several clients.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Cover a geographic territory, specific to the market on a weekly basis

Placement of point of purchase POP materials
Complete endcap/category resets remodels may require the use of tools
Ensure categories are set to planogram
Installment of toner and paper supplies
Ensure demo units are functioning properly and updated
Perform store audits
Check inventory levels
Take and upload photos of completed work
Develop relationships with stores in the market
Complete call reports by required deadline
Respond to supervisor requests and correspondence in a timely fashion
Attend weekly conference calls
Other tasks as requested by management

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
High school diploma or equivalent
1-2 years of merchandising experience required

SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS
Must be able to drive on behalf of the Company, in compliance with Company guidelines and requirements; and have the ability to travel within a designated market.
Must have a valid drivers license and be able to show proof of valid motor vehicle insurance
Must be detail oriented and highly organized
Must be able to independently manage an account base
Must possess excellent verbal communication skills
Must have a computer with internet/web access and the ability to send and receive email attachments
Must have access to a digital camera and the ability to upload photos
Possess the ability to read store Planograms and schematics
Display a professional demeanor while representing the client and 

Channel Partners
Must meet all pre and post-employment requirements, including but not limited to background check, drug screening, and motor vehicle review.

Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds
Must be able to stand for long periods of time, up to 5 hours.

Channel Partners is a brand of BDS Marketing, Inc. bds. bds is an equal opportunity employer in every aspect of employment, selection, training, development, promotion, transfer, termination, and all other privileges, terms and conditions of employment. bds is an at-will employer; whereas either the employee or bds may terminate employment at any time with or without notice, and with or without cause.

Apply here: Retail Merchandiser

by Michelle Brown

Data Collectors Wanted - AR CA FL GA LA NY PA PR TX...

I. PURPOSE OF THE JOB:

The Data Collector will be responsible for collecting pricing information at the retail level. The Data Collector will be assigned stores in their general area to visit weekly, monthly, and/or quarterly meeting collection and transmission deadlines. Must be available 15-20 hours per week.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Professionally represent client in demeanor and image at all times.
• Use data collection device to record product unique codes, accurately enter unique price(s) and appropriate attributes based on individual client collection criteria.
• Download lists(s) required based on the type of data collection equipment and audit type.
• Transmit data collected with accurate store time and drive time.
• If collecting data from a list that requires more than one day to complete, transmit items audited daily using the correct work date and store time.
• Call automated telephone system or utilize web-based Client Field Portal to verify successful transmission(s).
• Call or email the District Manger immediately with error transmission information.
• Complete all work assigned by District Manager or Logistics Manager or other company management.
• Notify District Manager immediately when a deadline will be missed.
• Meet performance expectations of at least 95% for on-time completion, 95% accuracy rate and successful data collector re-audits at least twice a year with a minimum threshold of 80% to remain in good standing.
• Assist on any check including but not limited to: Undirected Category checks and full books, Directed Item Lists, Lapel Checks (Undirected and Directed), CPG and PSV checks.
• Collection Rate Index must be at or above 90% at all times to stay in good standing.
• Must timely take and pass the Data Collector Certification Test(s) to be eligible for continued employment and bonuses.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Must have reliable transportation.
• Must have auto insurance and periodically produce evidence of such.
• Must have internet service.
• Must be willing to perform all assignments, including Lapel Checks (defined as “undercover” and working in stores discreetly).
• Must be willing to travel between store locations and cover a minimum 60-mile radius from home location, as needed.
• Must be available 15-20 hours per week.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Multi-tasking/time management/organizational skills
• Detailed oriented
• Flexible and quick to adapt to changes
• Excellent follow-up skills
• Strong communication skills
• Professional demeanor
• Previous retail or grocery experience
• Ability to travel overnight if required
• 10-key experience

EXTENT OF PUBLIC CONTACT:

• Daily personal contact with store personnel.
• Telephone or face-to-face daily communication with District Manager and/or Corporate staff.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to read, bend, kneel, reach, stretch, squat and have the ability to move heavy items to access Universal Product Code numbers while standing on your feet for long period of time.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Must be able to use data collection equipment.
• May be exposed to extremely cold temperatures for extended periods of time.

APPLY HERE: Data Collectors Wanted

by Michelle Brown

Field Interviewers Wanted

Did you answer "YES" to the above questions? If you did, then you might be a great candidate for our Field Interviewer position. We are looking for high energy, high achievers who are ready for an opportunity to succeed.

Put your personality to work for you at American Institute for Consumer Studies. Click here to apply: Apply

The American Institute of Consumer Studies is always looking for “go-getters” with strong attention to detail and a love for travel. Think we’re looking for you? Then apply today! 

by Michelle Brown

Merchandisers Wanted - Albany, GA

We are a 31-year young family business seeking a long term, permanent Part-Time Merchandiser to service stores located in:

Albany, GA: 2 service calls per month / 3-5 hours per service call

Compensation: $16.00 per hour Mileage

Requirements:
- Experience working with minimal supervision
- Reliable Transportation
- Possess a valid driver's license and a safe driving record
- Ability to provide a high level of customer service and solve customer issues as they arise

Responsibilities
- Maintain appropriate product levels on eyewear displays
- Maintain, clean, and organize product and displays at store level
- Meet customer service expectations through communication, problem resolution and follow-up with i-gogs manager
- Maintain a professional, team relationship with customers and co-workers
- Maintain merchandising standards per company policies


Additional Information:
- This is a part time, permanent position
- Please send resume to: kwalker@i-gogs.com
- Company website: www.i-gogs.com

Location: Albany, GA
Compensation: $16.00 per hour Mileage
This is a part-time job.

How to Apply
Please send resume to: kwalker@i-gogs.com
by Michelle Brown

Merchandisers, Installers, Warehouses Needed

At Footprint Retail Services, we are constantly searching for the best people to represent us at retail. Our clients are among the world's leading brands and retailers, For this reason, we set very high standards for the individuals who execute our in-store programs and projects.

In order to provide our clients with the assurance that we understand the importance of maintaining the appropriate levels of professionalism and integrity, employees and contractors are required to pass a drug and background check. If you are interested in joining out team, please select one of the links below.

Merchandiser/TeamLead:W-2 based positions executing regularly scheduled programs at retail, part-time or full-time positions available nationwide. Click here to apply: Apply

Installer/Helper: Footprint Services Centers provide fixture/small appliance installation services for retailers and brands nationwide. Installers are generally required to provide their own transportation and must be skilled with basic tools/assembly/light construction. Click here to apply. Apply

Depot Operator: Independently operated businesses that provide warehousing and installation services. If your business would like to apply to become a Footprint Service Center, please contact our Vice President of Field Services at depots@fprs.com.

by Michelle Brown

Merchandisers Wanted - Nationwide

Pet parents can't purchase the right products if they can't find them.

Our retail merchandising team is dedicated to executing targeted brand placement campaigns within retailers nationwide. This requires the ability to work well with store managers and associates, have experience reading planograms or willingness to learn and always be a helping hand to the customers.

Our product vendors count on our retail merchandisers to secure the right visibility to most effectively reach their consumers; which means this role is not only an essential part of our business, but our vendors as well. This part-time position is available in pet specialty retail chains across the country. We can cater to candidates in all markets.

Click here to apply: Merchandiser

by Michelle Brown

Brand Ambassadors (Demonstrators) Wanted - Nationwide

Pet parents want the best for their animals. Through in-person connections, our demonstrators help educate customers on the products that best fit the lifestyle and nutritional needs of their loved ones.

The Pet Firm is an entrepreneurial company developing winning products and programs for both people and pets! We are passionate about our vendor's products and the services we provide them. We develop strong relationships with the retailers to assist our vendor partners in creating successful strategies for their products. We are a group of people who are dedicated to what we do, enjoy working in a team environment, and have fun doing it.

Mission: Build strong relationships with our vendor and retail partners to drive success, growth, and brand awareness.
Vision: To be the premier sales, service and marketing company in the pet industry

Values: A family company that cares about its people. We value hard work and an entrepreneurial spirit leading to new opportunities and challenges.

Click here to apply: Brand Ambassador

by Michelle Brown

Murder and mayhem...

When I interviewed with my current company, I was reminded that neighborhoods that accept SNAP/EBT (food stamps) might be a tad bit dangerous.

As a sub contracting reviewer for the food stamp program, I am tasked with visiting stores to conduct inventories and compile other information associated with the benefits. I was warned to be cautious of my surroundings, should I accept the mission. Being the prudent (read: greedy) independent contractor that I am, of course I accept!

That interview was 16 months ago and now comes the proof in the pudding. Last evening a beautiful woman was gunned down during an attempted robbery at a store in my area. I am not fearful, but that was a little close to home. I pray that God blesses us, all.

On the brighter side, I chuckled to myself as I completed photos for my last review of the day. The convenience store was packed with customers returning home from work and hopefuls in line to play the Power Ball lottery.

Generally people act a little leery when they see people (me) taking photographs in public. I guess they forget that Big Brother is alway watching. They must not know that you are fair game once you leave your private residence. I am respectful, using no flash when I photograph them stealthily. I laughed because should anyone object, I'd just ask the crowd if they wanted SNAP/EBT (food stamp) benefits at that store and they would probably all break out vogueing and  posing!

I had a smashing day in the field completing 7 reviews today and working out, too. I am so pleased with myself. I have to rise early tomorrow, as the early bird gets the worm. I'll have a nice bean tostada and play Candy Crush until I fall asleep in bed.



Tip: Check out mystery shopping assignments available in your area using one of my favorite companies here: 

You can also take the lazy route and get a huge list of companies and the ability to apply instantly. Take a look at the available shops in your area. 

by Michelle Brown

A Spontaneous Day Off...

A spontaneous day off is always cool, isn't it? If so, why do I feel like I'm behind?! As much as I enjoy life and living for me, yesterday mommy had to take the backseat. I didn't see the Floyd Mayweather vs Canelo Alvarez fight.

I didn't get my laundry done. I did no field services work. Not a door-knock, not a mystery shop, not a nothing! 

When I realized in the early afternoon that my daughter wouldn't be back with the "get-away" anytime soon, I determined the day was a wash! May as well eat pizza, donuts and watch videos. Heavy sigh.

So, now it's around 5 am and I must produce today. As I schedule my day, there is a mystery shop in Beverly Hills and loads of SNAP/EBT (food stamps) store reviews all over the Los Angeles area.

Is it just me, or does everyone else see the economic downturn of the US. Not just see it, but experience it? I cry on the days that I go to Malibu, Huntington or Redondo Beach. Some of the most affluent communities in the nation are requiring government assistance in the form of "food stamps". Of course they haven't been called food stamps by the government in a long time, but it's hard to change such brand recognition.

If I was really on the ball, I'd schedule myself a nice mystery shop lunch, but that would be too much like RIGHT!  Doing the right thing isn't so much fun, is it???  Or is it? My pocketbook would be happier to receive the check back, but fitting it in the schedule and NOT going bonkers isn't a better price to pay. So "Brown Bag Cafe" it is! If only I were that organized! HA! I will probably end up choosing something terrible while out and about.

I plan to do better next week! Which is tomorrow, for me.

If you want to check the eligibility for SNAP/EBT (food stamps) for you, a friend or family member, click here:

Michelle Brown

by Michelle Brown

Need An Oil Change...?

A top mystery shopping company is looking for owners of Cadillacs, Buicks, Chevrolets, and Fords. If you have a qualifying vehicle, you are eligible to earn cash PLUS the reimbursement for an oil change and/or tire rotation (you can certainly receive each service at different locations so you can earn more!). Travel Cash is available if you are willing to go a little farther, so if you are traveling by car to a cabin, across the state, grandma’s house, or on a road trip, you should check our list of open shops to see what you can earn on your way!

Have you ever wanted to be a mystery shopper? Are you observant and professional. Some mystery shops require narratives (3 or 4 sentences) and some have check boxes. It's too easy! Sometimes we get caught up in receiving horrible service and we feel it is our duty to share with the world! Well now you have the opportunity to return the favor. Reward an outstanding employee or team. 

After having been in the mystery shopping business for 15 years, I like to have balance in my life by documenting and celebrating great customer service. Whether I am conducting a shop or going about my regular day, I take the time to compliment superior service. 

Can you say, "FREE Oil Change?" This is no joke. What are you waiting for? Check the list of open shops near your home and Happy Shopping!

Cadillac, Buick, Chevrolet, and Ford car owners click here!


Don't own one of those cars? Retail shops are also available. Check the list here: 

Michelle Brown

by Michelle Brown

Printer Ink - Get More For Your Buck

How many times have you run out of ink in the middle of a print job? Does your ink seem to run out before the end of the month, or run out before of your print job finishes? 

TIP: Use your printer's preferences to print documents in a fashion that uses less ink, but is professional-looking. 

When you are a field services professional (mystery shopper, merchandiser, reviewer, inspector, etc.), you most likely work for yourself and are "self-employed." You will have a home office and are responsible for the maintenance, cleaning, and supplies. Just because you work from home in your pajamas doesn't mean your work product should look like it. When you have door-knocks to conduct or forms to complete in the field, who has resources to make every copy at Staples, Office Max, or Office Depot?


When you are ready to print, remember to:


click Preferences in your print dialogue box; (mine looks like this for my Lexmark 5650-Lexmark black ink #36)

When I print from the internet, I get this box: select Print using (printer) system dialogue to get the dialogue box pictured above

in the next dialogue box select the option Quick Print, or other option that is lighter, using less ink; [Note: Selecting print in black and white saves your color ink.](mine looks like this)

Test one page using your regular preferences and one page using the new preferences. Notice the darkness of Automatic, Normal, and Best settings. Your Quick Print job should look as good and your wallet should thank you. 

Being frugal and minding your expenses will only increase your bottom line. It would be a terrible thing to miss out on work because your printer is out of ink or otherwise out of service.

Michelle Brown

Diversity Is The Name of The Game

Stocks, bonds, or mutual funds might come to mind when you think about diversifying. Or Blacks, Whites, Latinos, and Asians getting along in Los Angeles might mean diversity to some. In field services, the name of the game is diversity. You've got to change up. Keep your skills fresh with continuous education and different opportunities.

In 1998 I performed my first mystery shop assignment. It was an upscale bar shop and was exciting, fun, and intimidating all at the same time. Since then, I have shopped apartment complexes, retail establishments, and banks. I have performed property preservation on foreclosed properties to include board-ups, grass cuts, and lock changes. Today I perform reviews for the USDA SNAP / EBT (food stamp) program and FDA recalls. I also provide door-knock services for a major bank for delinquent consumer loans.

From mystery shopping to government contracts. Wow! The key to diversifying your field services business is business development. When I have free time, I am looking for opportunities to work in the field. Insurance companies, freight companies, real estate agencies, mortgage servicers, etc. all use independent contractors to perform field services. Reviews, inspections, and audits are some keywords that can be searched to find work in your area.

I have been a self-employed field services professional since 2008. I enjoy time off, a fluid schedule, and working from home. Although it may sound glamorous, it hasn't always been pretty. When I was hungry for work and fresh in the field services game, I took work three states away! I slept in flea-bag motels that hardened truckers frequented. I've blown car engines and been pulled over by the sheriff, by name over a bullhorn. Those were the days!

Today I am able to walk into local stores, near my home, and announce that I am "here on behalf of the USDA". As an independent contractor, I work for NO ONE by myself. I do not work for the USDA. I would misrepresent myself if I said so.

You too, can work your way up to government contracts. Applying to numbers of mystery shopping companies could possibly yield interesting work in your area. A good day of working in the field would be having a number of assignments that would cover your daily expenses and earn you "X" amount of dollars. You get to determine the "X" amount. Take a break from Facebook and develop your business. Search for "independent contractor" or "1099" positions around your town. Apply to numbers of mystery shopping companies so you can gain experience in different industries.

I'll leave you with a cute video adapted from the New York Times Business Bestseller "Who Moved My Cheese?" by Dr. Spencer Johnson.

Michelle Brown

Happy Holidays...or NOT!

Recently I visited my local AAA office to register my vehicle instead of doing it at the DMV and waiting for at least an hour. That is a very cool service AAA offers. Mind you, they don't take plastic for DMV services! The office was rather crowded as it was a Tuesday, following the Labor Day holiday. The staff was very pleasant, in my opinion. They were calming and soothing to me. Others didn't see it the same way. I think they believed this auxiliary, or extra service would allow them to magically enter the establishment, wait in (no) line, handle their business affairs and exit, all under ONE minute, flat. I was cool while we waited, but maybe that was just me. Maybe it was my tablet and Candy Crush! Maybe. In addition, the manager was actively milling about greeting the guests, offering cool bottled water and otherwise being gracious.

When it was my turn, the clerk was warm and welcoming. He asked if I enjoyed my Labor Day weekend. I informed him that I "labored". I worked in the field and made clear that it was a blessing to do so. First, and foremost, it is a blessing to have work on any day. Second, being self-employed allows me to take off any day that I choose. I further reminded the clerk that we incur bills on the holiday, we like to live indoors and love to eat on holidays. The caveat being: if you don't work, you don't eat. So, be mindful. I am grateful to work on any day.

When I visit vendors who apply to the USDA to accept SNAP/EBT (food stamps), they are often shocked that I work on Sundays. I remind them that I am not employed with the USDA and that I am an Independent Contractor. I am self employed and make my own schedule. Often I am speaking with the owner or proprietor. They are equally shocked to realize that they, too, work on Sundays! Win-Win!

One of the the benefits that I love about being self-employed or working from home, is my flexible schedule. I am able to enjoy precious time with family and friends. I am able to make appointments and handle my business during  the business week, without having to ask someone for permission. I do, however, have to make up the time. That is why I work on weekends and holidays. You know what they say, "Slow feet don't eat!"  Or, lazy feet, as it were.

The only times I do not work are the times outlined in the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Holidays are NOT specifically stated, so call/visit away! The hours I do not visit debtors are before 8:00am or after 9:00pm. Any other time is a good time for a door knock. Door knocks being a field service that might be available in your area.

Michelle Brown

Online Applications For SNAP / EBT (food stamp) benefits

Did you know:

• Children under 18 make up nearly half of SNAP participants;
• 46% are non-elderly adults; and, 
• Elderly individuals comprise, or make up eight percent

Find more information and facts on the USDA SNAP program here: SNAP Educational Information

As America is pulling itself out of recession, more and more families are taking advantage of this program. Why not? We pay for it. You might be surprised to find you are eligible. 

Check your eligibility here: Food Stamp Eligibility

Some states allow you to apply online:

Arizona - Louisiana

Maine - Oregon

Pennsylvania - Wisconsin

• Now that you've got your benefits, what's for dinner? Here are some suggestions and recipes:

FNS Recipe Box

Michelle Brown

Don't Get Stuck Out In The Cold...Check The Business Hours

Another exciting day to report in the field of Field Services. After my third attempt, I was finally able to obtain needed photographs from a store that I reviewed days earlier. Most of us celebrated Labor Day on Monday by NOT working and this store was normally closed on Sundays.

Since I did not check the business hours prior to my visit on Sunday and finding it closed, I was sure to check the store for any sign or notification about being closed on Monday, for the holiday. A lot of stores were open and people enjoy eating fried fish on Labor day. Alas the fish market was NOT open on the Labor Day holiday. Sign be damned.

Even though the temperature was in the 90's, I felt cold and alone as I peered through the barred glass window; wishing I could be inside. T.W.Y.G. (That's What You Get...) I did not check the business hours before I went out.

Lesson learned: Remember to check the store/business hours before going out to do a visit and before routing your work. Don't put off your visit until "tomorrow" or you might find yourself stuck out in the cold, or the heat, as it were.