NEWS
EVENTS
“Can I see your ID please?”
Friday 22nd February 2013 | Osh
Not everyone thinks they’re lucky when they get asked for ID but did you know that due to real risks to the health and welfare of under 18’s, there are strict laws prohibiting the sale of certain items? It is illegal for a trader to sell age restricted goods and they could be prosecuted, get fined up for £5000 or actually lose their licence!
But the experience of being asked for ID can negatively affect you, the shopper, and whether you will return to this location or brand. Staff should always politely request to see your ID, in a non-accusatory manner. By explaining that they are obliged by law to double check date of birth and apologising for any inconvenience will also go a long way to making your shopping experience pleasant.
Not being able to produce your ID should also cause as little embarrassment or intimidation to you. The automatic assumption that you are actually underage will make one in every three 18-21 year olds reconsider returning if you have a negative experience. Being a young person (or looking younger than you are) you would expect to be asked for ID in a friendly, non-accusatory manner with an apology for any inconvenience. Staff should calmly explain that it is obligatory for them to double check.
We at Market Force, work with some well-known and international brands, conducting mystery shopping visits to check what the experience is like when you’re asked for ID and want you to tell us how you felt. We want to help develop a nationwide business culture for creating great relationships with this age group. Consistent good service will create customers for life.
Our assignments are pretty simple. They require that you visit a bar, a pub or a betting shop and follow a scenario (making a purchase or placing a bet) and we want you to complete an online report to tell us what happened and how you felt. The instructions also advise if you should keep your receipts so that you can get reimbursed for your drink, meal and (hopefully winning) bet. Easy money!
Are bars or betting shops new to you? If you’re worried about stereotypes, don’t be. Many businesses want to attract more customers and have moved with the times so you will find that their friendly staff want to help you place a bet or tell you more about a product.
If you’re interested in getting paid for your customer experience feedback, register with us at http://uk.marketforce.com/
