Mystery shopping



There is nothing for free. But how about almost free, or free with little effort? Ah ha! Now that you’re paying attention, let’s talk about the world of Mystery shopping.

Mystery shopping, or being a secret shopper, is merely evaluating a product or service, and then getting paid to do it. The only stipulation is that you must be covert about it. The list of assignments is literally endless. You could be asked to go to a fast food restaurant, a clothing store, an employment agency, a car repair establishment, receive a bouquet of flowers, get your eyes checked, be a potential renter in an apartment complex, or eat out at a fine dining restaurant. Many will reimburse you for the item they required you to purchase and also give you a small bonus ($8-$15) on top of that. Sometimes you’re allowed to spend $40 for dinner and you’ll get an extra $10 if you submit your report on time. Other times you will be reimbursed only for what you purchased and that’s it. Each company compensates differently.

Like everything, there are some disadvantages. Maybe domains to consider is a more appropriate word to use here. What is the value of your time? Sometimes we offer you a concert in which you have to stay in a store for 20 minutes and interact with different employees. Then you have to go home and fill out a three-page report detailing every treat that has occurred. You may have traveled 40 miles round trip and you will get a check for $ 10 at the end.

Consider how much your time and fuel tank are worth. The assignment may be suitable for your situation. You may also be invited to visit a boat filled with fast food restaurants and buy Crabby Patties. Now, you suddenly need a brand new wardrobe, as it seems that your dryer is shrinking all your pants. You just need to evaluate where you want to go and determine if you are ready to do the task for the agreed compensation.

Getting started is pretty simple. Search on Google for the words Mystery Shopper, Mystery Shopping or Secret Purchase. From there you will see a plethora of companies working in this area. Visit each site to sign up and become a customer. They will ask you for basic contact information. Some will ask why you want to be a customer. Others might ask for a sample of your writing. This is to make sure that you can complete an evaluation report. It could take 4 to 6 weeks before you receive news. Some will call you, others will send you emails and others will send homework by mail (note that most have deleted mail assignments). Register with as many companies that interest you.




Comments (0)

Leave a comment