What are the odds?

If you only know how to do one thing to earn money, you may find yourself on the short end of the stick when times get tougher, post The Great Recession of 2007. Diversification is the name of the game today. In order to get paid in mystery shopping, one must apply to and work for more than one company. Field Services professionals should also work for numbers of companies to insure a steady flow of contracts. 

Contracting with several companies provides numerous benefits. I am able to drive to and see new places. I meet tons of new and interesting people and I learn so many things. People are always so happy to talk about what they are into. I am happy to listen, sometimes. Sometimes too much conversation is a distraction. I am still learning how to tactfully excuse myself when people get too chatty.

Currently I conduct reviews for the USDA, as a subcontractor. I review stores that are applying to accept SNAP/EBT (food stamps). I am a reviewer for FDA recalls and also chase delinquent consumer loans.

Yesterday the address of a food stamp vendor seemed vaguely familiar. The street did, at least. As I arrived, I remembered the location perfectly. It seems the same store was having some financial issues earlier this year and became delinquent. I conducted the covert review for the delinquent loan.


In some sort of twisted redemption, I was happy to conduct the review for the food stamp benefits. The store will surely increase sales by accepting food stamps and the neighborhood will equally benefit.

If you would like to apply for SNAP/EBT (food stamps), many states have online applications. Check for your state here: http://bit.ly/OnlineSnapApp

If you find yourself hating your job, hating your employer, or hating how you look in your uniform, start thinking of some ways to escape this rat race. Take a gander at one of my favorite videos about not looking ahead and allowing moss to gather under your feet. The video "Who Moved My Cheese?" was adapted from the New York Times Business Bestseller by Dr. Spencer Johnson.

by Michelle Brown

The Government Shut Down & So Did My Contracts....

So the Government has shut down. I am normally a happy-go-lucky person and don't worry about much. Last week when they threatened the shut-down, I didn't worry. Then the day came - SHUT DOWN! I still didn't worry. 

It was not until I received an email from my office that all of the USDA SNAP/EBT (government) applications would be put on hold. Then I realized the ramifications and the backlash. The pipeline was being shut off. What is one to do???  Business Development - that's what. I conduct business development activities almost daily. What is worse than not enough work? Too much work! NOT! Wouldn't that be a great problem to have? Having too much work? That is called a positive risk.

There are all kinds of risks associated with owning your own business or working for yourself. Having too much work is certainly a positive risk I look forward to. 

Field services is broad and touches many sectors. No need to put all of your eggs into one basket. Diversify! Although my USDA SNAP/EBT vendor reviews have slowed to a halt, my collections (door knocks) are still available. 

Now, to search for more. Not everything is going to be laid out for you. You have to be creative in your search. I check associations and directories, forums and bulletin boards for posted opportunities or the names of companies that might conduct field services. 

I'll apply to numbers of companies in one sitting. I'm constantly tweaking my resume. I'll take some of the crappiest jobs, just to get a feel for the company. I started out mystery shopping for reimbursements. Fifteen years later, I represent the USDA.  :)  Yay me!  

You can do it too, but you've got to start somewhere. Use mystery shopping as a platform. Learn about different industries, different companies, and different types of field services reporting. In my 15 years of experience I have inspected cars, businesses, heavy equipment, damaged freight, foreclosed properties, USDA vendors and provided FDA recall reviews. The search continues...
by Michelle Brown

10 Positions in CA - Merchandisers Wanted

JOB DESCRIPTION
Be a part of an exciting, successful and growing merchandising company. Submit your application today! We have many opportunities available.

HDA Merchandising is a successful service company that was created to meet unique challenges of managing products in retail markets. We are currently seeking Part-time Merchandisers/Stockers to service products in local retail stores.

We are anxious for candidates to join our company that have a positive attitude, strong work ethic, good communication skills and the ability to complete daily procedures and responsibilities without direct supervision.

WE OFFER:

- Competitive wages

- Travel reimbursements per company guidelines

- Flexible hours / Monday -- Saturday

- Online training / Video training

- Ongoing weekly, bi-weekly, or quarterly visits

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Ability to read or learn to implement planograms

- Replenish racks to ensure fully stocked racks/shelves -- Pack out all shipments per service objectives

- Maintain racks and signage -- order as needed via online reporting system

- Complete periodic resets and build seasonal corrugate displays throughout the year

- Process inventory audits if required

- Report ALL completed work on a daily basis

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

- Merchandising, Stocking or retail experience preferred

- Access to internet with functional email address and ability to print instructions

- Stand/walk/stoop/bend/kneel for long periods of time up to 4-6 hours

- Access to a digital camera/phone with the ability to take and upload pictures to our online reporting system

- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

- Be accountable for all work performed on time and adapt well to change

- Strong time management skills

-Ability to lift up to 20-50 lbs.

- Reliable transportation

- Submit to a background check

Thank you for your interest in HDA Merchandising and we look forward to reviewing your APPLICATION.
by Michelle Brown