The cost of an effective third-party mystery shop of a franchise recruiting program in terms of hours can vary significantly depending on various factors, including the scope of the evaluation, the size and complexity of the franchise system, and the depth of the assessment.

Here is a general outline of the potential time investment for each phase of the mystery shopping process:

1. Planning and preparation: 4-8 hours This phase includes understanding the franchisor’s objectives, designing the mystery shopping approach, and developing evaluation criteria and guidelines.

2. Mystery shopping execution: 15-40 hours The actual execution of the mystery shop involves contacting the franchisor, participating in the recruitment process, attending Discovery Day or similar events, reviewing materials and documents, and gathering feedback from existing franchisees. This phase’s duration can vary significantly based on the complexity of the franchise system and the extent of the evaluation.

3. Data analysis and reporting: 8-16 hours This phase involves analyzing the gathered data, identifying trends and patterns, and developing actionable recommendations for improvement. It also includes preparing a detailed report that highlights the findings, insights, and suggestions for the franchisor.

Overall, a third-party mystery shop of a franchise recruiting program could require anywhere from 27 to 64 hours or more, depending on the specific project. It is important to note that these estimates are approximate and can vary based on the unique needs and requirements of each franchise system.

To get a more accurate estimate for your specific situation, it is recommended to consult with a professional mystery shopping company that specializes in franchise recruitment evaluations.

See also: Mystery Shop Sales Process