I came to IPIU in 2004 but I did not actually obtain full membership until May 2006. Since re-joining IPIU I made a commitment that I would give it my 100% in effort and as a result, the doors have really opened up for me.
Prior to joinging IPIU I signed up with over 300 companies in 1999 to perform mystery Shops, audits and research. I am currently Gold Certified in Mystery Shopping since August of 2003. I haven't actually sat down and counted the number of shops, audits and research that I have completed but I am quite sure it is over 4000 plus shops. I guess someday I really need to go back and count them. For now, I leave all of that to my accountant to figure out each year.
Through out the years I have paid my dues by crawling, walking and these days trotting fast. I am in a position where I can comfortably pick and choose the jobs that I want and at a higher rate of pay. In many cases I negotiate my fees/pay rate.
I work as an independent contractor which allows me the flexibility to set my own calender. I can work as much or as little as I choose. For me, I stay busy each and every day. I like working as an independent contractor because it allows me the freedom to work for many different companies. It also gives me the opportunity to see just what is out there.
As I stated earlier, since coming back to IPIU the opportunities have opened up even more.
Last week, I was contacted by one of the companies that I have completed work for in the past, to work on a project that will last 2-12 months. There was an added bonus of a significant pay raise to go along with the job. I am eager to start this new project.
I will still have time to do other assignments and projects as well.
Never quit or give up on seeking out assignments. It will take time to build up your credibility and reputation as a dependable worker;however, in the end you find all your efforts and hard work will pay off.