Welcome to Samplers, Inc! We are excited to have you on the team.
We have included this Frequently Asked Questions Page (FAQ) to help you navigate your Samplers Inc portal account, apply for shifts, access necessary shift paperwork, complete shifts, and be paid. You can also reach out to any Staffing Coordinator for assistance should the below links not provide the answers you need.
rem
Starting Your Position with Samplers, Inc.
Q: How do I begin applying for shifts I am interested in?
A: Here you will find a video link and pdf document on how to apply for a shift.
Q: When will I receive new hire paperwork and how do I complete it?
A: New employees will be sent new hire paperwork to complete AFTER being assigned their first shift by a Field Staff Supervisor. You should receive this paperwork within 48 hours of being assigned your first shift. You may also email hr@samplersinc.com if you did not receive. Here you will find a guide to complete the new hire documents. A helpful hint: Your I-9 will not successfully submit if your signature is not exactly how it appears in your profile. Here is a guide that is a step by step process of completing the new hire documents.
Q: What is a Shift Assignment Notification?
A: Once you are selected for a shift, you will be emailed a Shift Assignment Notice. Please login to your portal to confirm or decline the shift. Please do this within 24 hours of receiving the notification
Q: Does the company pay mileage?
A: Mileage must be pre-approved before your shift by your Field Staff Supervisor. Travel Compensation is provided for locations beyond the expected travel radius of 40 miles (approximately 45 minute drive). Compensation for travel MUST be pre-approved. Compensation for mileage is paid at the current IRS Standard Mileage rate for the total number of miles traveled minus the expected 40 miles in each direction. Drive time is compensated at the state (or county, where applicable) minimum wage for the total time traveled minus the expected 45 minute drive in each direction
Q: Does Samplers reimburse for hotels or tolls?
A: As with mileage, any reimbursements must be pre-approved by your Field Staff Supervisor. In most cases, hotels/tolls are not reimbursed but questions should be directed to the Field Staff Supervisor before the shift.
Q: When will I be paid?
A: Our Pay Schedule Calendar can be found here:
Q: How can I view my pay stubs?
A: Pay stubs and other HR related items can be viewed on your iSolved account. Please note that you will not have an Isolved account until our HR team initiates your onboarding (see section regarding receiving new hire paperwork). Paystubs are found in your iSolved account at http://cps.myisolved.com - Your username is your full email address and the password was set by you.
Q: How do I sign up for direct deposit? Am I currently signed up for direct deposit?
A: When you are sent new hire paperwork, you will complete and have the option to sign up for direct deposit. After enrolling, if you need to make any edits, please go to your iSolved account at http://cps.myisolved.com - Your username is your full email address and the password was set by you.
Q: How do I complete my new hire paperwork?
A: You will receive an email from hr@samplersinc.com with your paperwork which you will fill out and submit
Q: If I usually work on one type of event, can I try others?
A: Yes, we encourage you to apply to any events in your area!
Q: I’ve applied to a shift; does that mean I am assigned?
A: Applying to a shift does not mean you have been assigned to it. If you are assigned to a shift, you will receive a confirmation email that you will need to confirm, and the shift will also appear in your upcoming shifts in the portal.
Q: Do you take taxes out of my pay check?
A: Samplers Inc is a W2 employment staffing agency. When you complete(D) your new hire paperwork, you select the various deductions you want which included federal and state tax options and withholdings. If you have any questions, you should contact a tax professional.
Q: Who can I speak to for help filling out my new hire documents?
A: Email hr@samplersinc.com
Q: Where do I upload my documents like my ID & SS card?
A: When you fill out your new new hire paperwork you will follow the prompts to upload any personal documentation
Q: I’ve applied to a shift; can you change the date or time?
A: Please reach out to the manager for your program and they can help you with any questions
Q: Do I still get paid for a refused event?
A: If your shift is rejected, you will have the store manager sign your time sheet and it will be processed as a manager refusal. You will be paid for 50% of the total hours of the shift.
Q: How do I accept or reject my shift?
A: Once you are assigned to a shift, you will receive a confirmation email to confirm the shift. Here you can confirm or reject the shift. If you have confirmed your shift and need to cancel please reach out to your manager.
Q: Do I need any certification to work for Samplers?
A: No, you do not need any certifications to work for Samplers. In the event a programs requires Food Safety Certification or TIPS Certification, this will be listed in the program details when required.
Q: Can I access payroll information through the Samplers, Inc portal?
A: No, the payroll system is managed OUTSIDE of the portal. The portal is used for event scheduling. The payroll system used is Isolved- http://cps.myisolved.com - Your username is your full email address and the password was set by you.
Q: May I use a chair or stool during my shift?
A: Our clients do ask that staff are standing at their event table. However, please email hr@samplersinc.com for an accommodation approval. Any stools/chairs that are approved by our HR department must be provided by the employee.
Q: When will events/demos be posted?
A: We post jobs everyday. We receive them whenever the client sends. We recommend you check open shifts daily to see new postings.
Q: Why did my shift get cancelled/removed/deleted?
A: If you receive a notification of removal from a shift, this is can be due to many reasons including: client cancellations or store inventory issues.
Q: How do I update my contact information and address?
A: Login to the Samplers portal and go to your profile and make any updates
Q: What types of events are available with Samplers?
A: We offer a variety of programs including product demos, adult beverage tastings, food samplings, and more!
Q: Do I need to upload a picture to my profile?
A: It is not a requirement to upload a picture to your profile
Q: Do I have to fill out any new hire paperwork?
A: Yes, new hire paperwork must be filled out prior to your first shift
Q: Who do I contact when I am having issues with my account? (Log in, password, verification codes)
A: Email info@samplersinc.com
Q: Will Samplers reimburse me for any certifications?
A: At this time, Samplers does not reimburse for certifications.
Q: Where do I send my certifications once I have completed them?
A: You can send your certifications to hr@samplersinc.com
Q: How do I reset my password for Samplers?
A: Email info@samplersinc.com
Q: Do I get a break?
A: All shifts 5 or more hours in length – Employees are required to take 1 paid 10-minute rest break and 1 unpaid 30-minute meal break. For shifts longer than 5 hours, please email hr@samplersinc.com for clarity. Please always work with the store/event venue and make sure a supervisor at the store/event venue knows you are taking your break. Any area you are working in needs to be cleaned up, utensils away, unused samples removed, etc.
Q: Where do I find out the hourly pay? Is commission or bonuses available based off my sales?
A: The hourly pay is listed next to the shift in the portal. Commission or bonuses are not offered unless explicitly listed in the program description for the shift you are applying.
Q: How old do I need to be to work for Samplers?
A: Staff must be 18 years of age or older to work samplings and promotions for our agency. HOWEVER, staff must be 21 years of age to work any alcohol samplings.
Q: How do I add a note when I apply to a shift?
A: You can use the note section when applying to indicate your preferred date and time. When you apply for a shift after you hit the apply button there will be an option to leave a note. Hit the green plus sign and type your note and hit the green plus sign again to save your note. The Program Manager will see this note and reach out to you if accommodations can be made.
Before Your Shift: Helpful Tools.
Q: What happens after I confirm my shift?
A: Now that you are assigned a shift, you can view your schedule in the portal. Here is a video of where you can see upcoming shifts, shifts today, and completed shifts.
Q: When can I expect shift details?
A: The week of the shift (ideally 3-5 days prior), you will receive a Shift Reminder Email that will include specific information related to the position. This will also include attachments that will be relevant to the shift such as a shift manual, timesheet, and other requirements for that specific client. These will change depending on the shift. These documents should also be listed with the shift in your portal.
Q: What is a Shift Reminder Email?
A: The Shift Reminder Email is the specific job duties that are required for that position. We work with many different clients so you will see there are major differences between different jobs you may be assigned to over time. Please reference the GLOSSARY section of our FAQ page to better understand terms we may use in our reminders.Here is a link to an example Shift Reminder Email you may receive: Example Reminder
Q: What If I need to cancel my shift?
A: If you need to cancel prior to one week before the shift, you can decline the shift in the portal. If you have received the Shift Reminder Email already, please email the Field Staff Supervisor who sent the reminder. Please note, if any materials have been shipped to you for the shift, you may be asked to assist with transferring them to a replacement.
Q: Can I change the event date or event time of my shift?
A: Date and time changes must be approved by the Field Staff Supervisor prior to the event. Many events are advertised or communicated to the store in advance.
Before & Day of Your Shift: Helpful Tools
Q: What are the necessary documents I should have for my shift?
A: These documents, such as your shift manual and shift timesheet, should be printed prior to your shift so you can bring them to your shift. You should review these so you are familiar with your duties before working your shift.
Q: What are shift materials/shift kit & where do I obtain it?
A: Review your Shift Reminder Email to see if your materials are at the store or coming to you. If items were to arrive at your home and you did not get them, inform your Field Staff Supervisor immediately. These shift items could include important tools needed for your shift. Open any boxes shipped to your home so you know what you have received.
Q: What should I wear to my shift?
A: Review your Shift Reminder Email to know what the required attire is and be sure you have it prepared and ready for your shift.
Q: How will I obtain the product for sampling?
A: Review your Shift Reminder Email. It will specify if you will receive a comdata card, how to activate (if necessary), if you will need to purchase product and be reimbursed, etc. If you do have to purchase and be reimbursed, please mark REIMBURSE on your receipt.
Q: If I have to purchase product, etc when will I be reimbursed?
A: Any reimbursements for product purchased (if no debit card is provided, etc) will be issued in your paycheck and itemized as an expense.
Q: What should I bring to my shift?
A: Please bring any shift items (if shipped to your home), your printed shift documents and any other supplies that have been outlined to provided by you by your Field Staff Supervisor such as a table, cooking utensils, etc). Be sure to also bring a phone to check in and out of your shift, complete reporting, and take photos.
Q: How do I check in with Samplers, Inc on the day of my shift?
A: Some shifts may require an "Intent to Execute" call/text which is done prior to the shift (morning of) to alert your Field Staff Supervisor that you will be on site for your scheduled time. Do not skip this step. If you do not do this, your Field Staff Supervisor may replace you on your shift. Prior to your start time, you will receive a prompt text to complete your GPS check in on site. Make sure our GPS location services are on. Go into your profile and find the GEO test location button. Press that button to confirm your GPS location is on. Please click the link to properly check in. This shows your Field Staff Supervisor that you are on time and where you should be for your shift.
Q: Who do I check in with on site?
A: This will vary based on the location of the shift. This could be the Store Manager, Team Lead, Field Manager, Department Head, or another rep. Please refer to your Shift Reminder Email on who the proper person is to check in with on site. If you encounter issues, please follow the guidelines outlined in your Shift Reminder, such as calling any 800 help desk numbers or reaching out to your Field Staff Supervisor.
Q: Will a Field Staff Supervisor or someone from the agency be at the shift with me?
A: In most circumstances, no one from our agency will be at the shift with you. You may encounter another staff person working another event from Samplers Inc or another agency. However, this is an independent job. You should review all details prior to working your shift so you are confident and prepared to be working alone and activating your shift. Your Field Staff Supervisor can be reached during your event for support if needed.
Q: How and where do I setup if working an in-store shift?
A: Work with the On-Site representative for setup. This may include locating any necessary demo carts, shift kits shipped to store, a high traffic location for your display, etc. Be sure your work area looks professional and presentable. Follow the Shift manual exactly for a perfect setup.
Q: Can I work more than one shift per day?
A: In some cases, yes, working multiple shifts are allowed, provided there is adequate time to fulfil the requirements of the shifts. However, in the state of California, Samplers Inc does not offer this opportunity and only 1 shift can be worked per day- NO EXCEPTIONS. Any shifts must be confirmed by your Field Staff Supervisor.
Q: What do I do during my shift?
A: Now is the fun! You should interact with customers and drive sales! Always keep a smile on so everyone wants to approach you and deliver the talking points as outlined in the shift manual. Invite customers to your display as they pass. Be sure the product is visible, your table is neat and tidy, and you practice any food safety requirements if applicable.
Q: What do I do if the store is out of inventory of my product?
A: Refer to your manual, and if there is no back up product, reach out to your manager and follow instructions for a manager refusal.
Q: When do I buy the products for sampling?
A: You can buy product once you arrive and check in at your shift.
Q: How do I buy the product for the sampling event?
A: If your shift requires purchases, you will be sent a purchasing card prior to your shift. Not every event will require this. Your event details will include this information.
Q: Can I stay to make up the time If I am late to my event?
A: In most circumstances, yes you can. Work with the store manager/lead to get approval.
Q: Why is my GPS showing that I am not on location?
A: Please make sure that your phone location settings are turned on. If you check in is still showing you off location, go to your profile and press the Test Geolocation button to test and fix your settings. The message "We can access your location perfectly" will appear if your settings are correct.
Q: What do I do if the store only has enough inventory to sample but not enough for customers to buy?
A: If there is not enough inventory of the featured product, check your manual to see if there is a backup product. If there is not enough of product to sell, talk to the manager at the store and ask them if they would like you to continue with the sampling or refuse the shift. Let your Field Staffing Supervisor at Samplers know what happened and fill out your time sheet accordingly with an explanation of that happened.
Q: I forgot to print my manual/timesheet- can I print at the store?
A: No, the store will not allow printing. You are compensated a printing/internet usage fee per event to allow you to print. Items must be brought with you.
Q: How do I activate my corpay card?
A: You do NOT need to activate this card (this is the mastercard with your name on it). We will load funds onto the card for you. There is nothing you need to do.
Q: What if the location does not have the product/low inventory of the product?
A: Refer to your shift manual for any backup plans. For example, a secondary sample product may be substituted, contact any support lines in the shift manuals, conduct a non-sampling Shift (educational), etc. Every shift will vary.
Q: What are shift photos and how to I get them?
A: Our client loves to see what is happening at your shift! Also, it shows the client you in action. Great photos would include you with a clean looking display in the correct attire, customers sampling/interacting (if the store and customer allows), and any other items you think the client would want to see.
Q: What do I do at the end of my shift?
A: Depending on where your shift is and the cleanup involvement, begin breaking down 5-15 minutes prior to allow you enough time to properly end the shift. Dispose of any unused product/samples/trash and return any store items used for the shift. In addition, return the shift cart to the backroom (if applicable). No product should be removed from the store- leftover samples can be thrown in the trash or given to the store manager/on site person. Your area should appear as if you were never there. We are a guest at these promotions so please be sure you do your part.
Q: Who signs my paperwork/timesheet?
A: After returning everything and cleaning up, you will need to obtain a manager signature on your timesheet/recap form. Please refer to your Shift Reminder Email for specifics needed to be paid.
Q: How do I check out of my shift for the day?
A: You will receive a check out text message from our GPS system. Please click and complete for check out. Go in to your profile and find the GEO test location button. Press that button to confirm your GPS location is on.
After Your Shift: Helpful Tools
Q: What do I do when I leave my shift?
A: As soon as you leave your shift you should take another look at the manual and Shift Reminder Email to see what shift reporting is necessary. Make sure to follow all necessary steps as reporting is equally as important as working the shift.
Q: What is post shift reporting?
A: This requirement will vary based on the client, but all reporting needs will be listed in your Shift Reminder Email. Make sure you review this and complete it within 24 hours of your shift (we recommend doing it before you leave the store or shift location)
Q: What do I send/submit after my shift?
A: You will send your timesheet that was assigned for that specific shift (there are different formats of timesheets so make sure you are sending the correct version as noted in your Shift Reminder Email)
Q: Where do I send my documents/photos?
A: Please click this video to see where you submit your documents after your shift:
Q: Can I take the unused product home at the end of the event?
A: At the end of your shift, you should dispose of unused product.
Q: Why did I receive an email saying my check in information was missed or wrong?
A: GPS check in is a requirement of working with Samplers. If you received an email saying your check in was not accurate, this means it was either late or your location services were off. Please contact your Field Staff Supervisor for clarity.
Q: How do I know if my paperwork/timesheet was received and is correct?
A: Our team reviews paperwork each business day. In the event that your paperwork is missing or incomplete, a member of our team will reach out to you advising you of what is still needed.
Q: Who can sign my timesheet/recap?
A: Preferably the store manager or lead on duty will sign. In the event that both are unavailable, a supervisor or department employee can sign.
Q: What do I do if I was paid incorrectly?
A: Please reach out your manager and speak to them about the shift that has the wrong payment amount. If payment was processed incorrectly, your manager will talk to HR and issue a late payment which is mailed via USPS.