Working From Home - A Day in the Life of a Field Services Professional 11082013

Working from home sounds like the best job on Earth and it can be, but there are parameters. Some of which include, finding work, managing the office, and arriving on time "to work" and appointments. Being able to schedule my work around my day is one of the best things I love about working from home. It is also one of the worst. As I age, naps are becoming more important every day; but not napping every day. If I am napping, who will be minding the proverbial store? No one.

Today I started my day in the field late. I arrived at my first door-knock / field chase a little after 11:00am.  Not to say that I wasn't working prior to. I normally wake up between 4:00am and 6:00am. I meditated on a great day and was grateful for such. I completed my report for a great mystery shop from the day before.

I will receive a reimbursement for an oil change at a local Chevrolet dealer and a cash payment of $20, with a possible $5 bonus. This is one of the better mystery shops, as a lot pay $2 to $7; maybe $15 or simply just a reimbursement. The Chevrolet dealership oil change report was rather easy with some narrative. After 15 years in the mystery shopping and field services business, this is one of the more desirable shops. Check out mystery shops in your area here [Free Oil Change]. Great paying exit interviews are also available.

As the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act states, bill collectors may begin their antics at 8:00am. The collection festivities must wrap up by 9:00pm. By these standards arriving at my field chase at 11:00am was late. After a quick stop at Staples for some copies, I was off to my first SNAP/EBT (food stamps) review, of four. Los Angeles 90003, then off to Bellflower 90706. Before heading to Bellflower I had a phone interview for more field services work. It was brief, but promising. I had two SNAP/EBT (food stamps) reviews in Bellflower. I completed one, but was starving after. I usually have my first meal before 9:00am or 10:00am. By 2:00pm, I am famished. I can't think, I can't see, and can not speak.

I wanted to be mindful of my food choice as my hips are spreading. I've slowed down on my exercise. Slowed to a crawl. Ok. Slowed to almost non-existent! Subway is my go-to lunch while in the field. I opted for a 6" veggie patty dressed with lots of colorful and yummy vegetables.

I tried Subway's new Saracha sauce. OMG. I am in love! Do you say, "Sa-ra-CHA" or "Sa-ra-CHI"? It was shown on Dr. Oz as a belly buster so I gave up the fattening mayo and mustard and will request Sa-ra-CHI from here on out on my Subway subs. After lunch, I felt sorry for the next vendor I visited, as I reeked of fresh onions; but, my belly was happy, though.

After Bellflower I headed to Paramount. I had always wanted to visit the Paramount swap meet. Request granted! I drove around and around before I decided to try inside the swap meet. BINGO! Well, almost. More like "BING!" The vendor I was looking for did rent a stall in the Paramount swap meet, but was not on premises that day. Great! What an anticlimactic swap meet visit! No vendor and slim pickings at the swap meet, overall. Seems business was slow, so people were packing it up and packing it in around 3:00pm. When I return I'll remember to buy some walnuts for banana-nut bread and pecans to snack on! Pecans are one of my favorite MUFA's, or belly busters.

After my last stop of the evening in Downey, I got a second wind. I was no longer tired and ready to run the streets. I called my daughter and invited her for a mani. First we stopped for ice cream. We love ice cream.

My daughter balled out and got a mani and a pedi. I'm not so loose with my ends. Funds. Dineros. I told my manicurist, they'd never get my $50 or $60. No I don't want a pedicure. No I don't want my "eyebrow" done and no, you can't fix my mustache! I pointed out how people hate who they are and try to pretti-fy their persons.

I told him, they should work on the inside, work on their hearts, and "just give me the plain Jane taupe/nude/cappuccino color -thank you." I was out of there for less than $20, including my tip. 

By the time, I got home it was about 6:30pm or 7:00pm.

Like when I am hungry, when I am sleepy, I am no good to anyone. I can't see, can't think, and can't speak! What the...? I am trying to manage my time better so I wound down and prepared for the next day. First, I had to complete my schedule - billing, if you will. I blogged a little and around midnight I settled in for a little tv before drifting off to sleep.  A productive day, but I could always do more! 

Michelle Brown

Free Oil Changes! Get 'em While They're Hot! - Mystery Shopping Assignments

Either I'm a great mystery shopper or they need help. As big of an ego that I have, I'm leaning toward the latter. One of my mystery shop companies called this morning looking for shoppers for oil changes. A free oil change and a little bonus ($25)...now that is worth my time. Free oil changes! Get 'em while they are hot! Owners of Cadillacs, Buicks, and Chevrolets are needed. You can even borrow a car! If interested, fill out the Online Application.

Mystery shopping may sound like fun, sneaking up on people and taking notes. It may look glamorous, like free lunches and cocktails at swanky beachside restaurants; but, it is not so easy! Mystery shopping is not for everyone. 

Mystery shopping entails strict deadlines, detailed instructions and sometimes narratives. You want your reports to provide a snapshot of what happened. What was said and when. It's like telling a story.

A lot of people are intrigued to find that I am a mystery shopper. How is it? Do they really pay? Is it a scam? They'll ask. It is work. I work from home, make my own hours, and take naps regularly. They do pay. Some pay more than others. Some pay sooner than others, but they all pay. 

Early in my field services career I had a problem with a company that I conducted door-knocks for. They were in over their heads and I was in on the tail end of the demise. I was shorted a few bucks, but chalked it up to the game. 

Overall, I have been happy with each of the companies that I've worked for. In the past 15 years, I've inspected 1000's of cars, businesses, pieces of heavy equipment, damaged pieces of freight, foreclosed properties, and SNAP/EBT (food stamp) vendors. I've met interesting people and learned lots of things. I learned there is a drill that uses forced water to cut stone. A maker of ambulances showed me that. 

One time I inspected a small business that I suspected was committing fraud in some way. I was to go in and inspect this business to see if there was legitimate (any) business being conducted. Why did the man try to pass off some dummy-looking computer equipment as NEW?! I swear it almost looked like the (FAKE) computer stuff at IKEA. No disrespect intended. IKEA is one of my favorites stores. But trying to pass old or dummy computer equipment off as new on a computer geek is death, for sure. 

The man followed me to my car talking a whole lot of mumbo jumbo. Yep. You frauding and your shoes need to be shined, I thought. Commercial inspections back in the day. Those were the days. I've moved on to USDA and FDA inspections/reviews now.

Working from home and working for myself can be tough at times, but the free time and the good times are well worth the effort. Now I've got to focus on moving to the next level. I think my memoir is ready to be written. People tell me to focus on one thing. I can not. We are so complex; the human. I believe I have found the magic and I am activating my powers, now. 

Completing field services contracts before or after my full time gig allowed me to segue to self employment. I worked them both until I was able to quit the full time job. There was a level of fear but I planned for that and made provisions. You've always got to have a back up plan. Plan B, C, or even a Plan G. 

Check out some of these mystery shopping assignments to see if you've got what it takes. I have gone from mystery shopping to earning to $70K in a year in field services contracts and you can too. But, you've got to start somewhere. 

FREE OIL CHANGES - Sign up here.

Merchandisers needed in the following states:

• AL (384)
• AZ (128)
• CA (178)
• FL (541)
• GA (429)
• IL (351)
• KS (199)
• LA (375)
• MI (207)
• MO (260)
• MS (228)
• NC (405)
• NV (48)
• NY (184)
• OH (396)
• PA (376)
• SC (299) 
• TX (817)

by Michelle Brown

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

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