Imagine getting paid to eat out, shop, and run errands -- all of
the mundane things that you have to do anyway. Such is the life
of a mystery shopper. Mystery shoppers are trained individuals
who visit establishments and pose as customers. While they are
engage in typical transactions, they are actually conducting
research. They are evaluating the business on such things as
cleanliness, wait time, professionalism, customer service, and
product quality.
Mystery shopping is not a high-paying career. It is, however, a
good way to make extra money if you enjoy shopping. Mystery
shoppers usually make around $10 to $15 dollars an hour plus the
cost of food or items bought. Sometimes, there is no monetary
pay. For example, a shopper hired to evaluate a hotel might just
receive lodging for the night.
Mystery shopping is a good job for someone who thoroughly enjoys
going into public and interacting with people. Shoppers should
also be observant and attentive.
You're probably wondering, "How do I become a mystery shopper?"
Web sites like Mystery Shopping Providers Association and
Volition provide lists of hiring companies. These companies will
generally have you fill out an online application and provide a
written description of a recent shopping experience. Companies
who hire mystery shoppers report that they check these
applications and writing samples carefully for spelling,
punctuation, and grammar. They also look for clear descriptions
of key details of the transaction.
Be aware, however, that numerous scams abound. An Internet
search for "become a mystery shopper," will turn up websites
offering to provide mystery-shopping jobs for a fee. Some will
sell a mystery shopper "kit." Though the price is cheap, usually
around $29, this is a scam. Legitimate job opportunities will
not ask you to pay a fee. This information is readily available
for free--you do not need to pay for it.
About the author:
Mystery Shoppers
Info provides detailed information about mystery shopper
jobs, mystery shopper networks, mystery shopper companies,
advice about how to become a mystery shopper, and cautions about
mystery shopper scams. Mystery Shoppers Info is the sister site
of Paid Surveys Web.
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