How to Make Money by Becoming a Mystery Shoper

How to Make Money by Becoming a Mystery Shopper

March 12, 2022

Let’s be honest, the idea of getting paid to shop sounds pretty amazing, right? And surprisingly, it’s a real gig! Mystery shopping – also known as “secret shopper” – involves evaluating retail experiences and reporting back on them. It's a fantastic side hustle for those looking for flexible part-time work.

What Exactly Does a Mystery Shopper Do?

Basically, you're sent out to stores (or restaurants, hotels, etc.) as a regular customer. You’ll be asked to:

Observe: Pay attention to things like customer service, store cleanliness, product displays, and adherence to company policies.
Record Details: You'll typically take notes on your observations, often completing a report detailing your experience. This could include things like the price of an item, the employee’s demeanor, and the quality of the shopping environment.
Sometimes – Purchase Items: In some cases, you’ll be asked to make a purchase (usually a small one) to evaluate the checkout process.

How Much Can You Earn?

Pay varies greatly depending on the company you’re working for, the complexity of the assignment, and your location. Some simple tasks might pay $10-$ 20, while more involved reports or evaluations could earn you $50 or more. It's not a get-rich-quick scheme, but consistent work can add up.

Finding Legitimate Mystery Shopping Opportunities

This is crucially important. There are a lot of scams out there, so do your research! Here are some reputable companies to check out:

Market Force: One of the largest and most established mystery shopping companies. https://www.marketforce.com/
Secret Shopper, LLC: Offers a wide range of assignments, from retail to restaurants. https://www.secretshopper.com/
IntelliShop: Another popular option with various assignments. https://www.intellishop.com/
ShopperHQ: Allows you to browse and select assignments that fit your schedule. https://www.shopperhq.com/

Tips for Success:

Be Detailed: The quality of your reports is what matters. Be thorough, objective, and provide specific examples.
Follow Instructions Carefully: Each assignment will have specific guidelines – read them carefully and adhere to them exactly.
Maintain a Professional Demeanor: You’re representing the company, so be polite and courteous to employees.
Track Your Hours: Keep a record of the time you spend on each assignment.
Beware of Upfront Fees: Legitimate companies never ask you to pay them to become a mystery shopper.

Is Mystery Shopping Right For You?

If you enjoy shopping, have good observation skills, and are detail-oriented, mystery shopping could be a great way to earn some extra cash. It’s a flexible side hustle that can fit around your existing schedule. Just remember to do your homework and choose reputable companies to avoid any potential scams.