ALT-1 Is being a Mystery Shopper Profitable
Being a mystery shopper is not only easy, it's free too. Everyone has seen the advertisements that charge $19.95 for the information, and that is it, it's just information. So why do these companies charge for this information? That's easy, because they can. They will glamorize it and make it seem like it is a fabulous and rewarding career with no boss and no schedule to follow; and we will pay for it. Apparently, $19.95 is the going rate for financial freedom and independence. Now, surely you don't believe all that. If you do, you shouldn't.
What is Mystery Shopping?
Mystery shopping is a test of sorts; you visit an establishment and rate the things you are asked to rate. Sometimes you are required to rate customer service, signage, ad sets, parking lot cleanliness, outside appearance of the building, inside appearance, checkout time, or salesmanship. Often you are asked to do it secretly, but occasionally you are asked to reveal who you are and what you are doing. You are then compensated for the completing the shop, and for purchases you were asked to make.
No Boss and No Schedule, Wow!
Before you get too excited, it's not what you are thinking. You don't necessarily have a boss, but you do have to answer to someone. You are given a set of guidelines to follow for each shop; if they are not followed you are not paid. You are not paid until you report the information, and you are not paid if the shop is completed or reported late. You do have a certain day you have to shop on, or a certain time frame to complete the task. You do have to give proof you were there, and your receipt will show the time and all the information the company needs. No receipt, no money! You really have to have an eye for details; if you miss one thing you may not be paid.
Financial Freedom and Independence
No, you will not be rich and free of all financial worries. Being the bearer of bad news is never good. You will not get rich, you will not make loads of money, and you will not be able to quit your job. So what do you get being a mystery shopper, if you don't get rich? It is more of a hobby or past time, than a job. You get paid maybe $7-$10 to complete the(grocery)shop, and you get reimbursed for purchases that are made, up to a certain amount. Usually purchase requirements are under $20, depending on what kind of shop you are doing. If you are already shopping at that specific store, why not get reimbursed for your purchases there? Sometimes you are asked to shop a gas station; it's nice to get gas for free every now and then.
Go Ahead, Sign-up
You still want to do it, after all the dream shattering of a financially worry-free life? Your persistence is to be admired, kudos to you! The MSPA is the place to go to find work in nearly any country. You can become certified there too; however certification does not increase your chances of getting a job. You can sign up there for free, and search for companies near you. No sense wasting your time with a company that doesn't have work where you live.
Summary
Okay, here is what you absolutely need to know. You won't be rich and you still have a boss, just not in the traditional sense. You must read everything before you accept a job; otherwise you risk not being paid. You may be required to have certain tools, do not accept jobs that you will not be able to complete according to the guidelines. Save your receipts! For heaven's sake, never pay for mystery shopping information! Visit the MSPA for information on companies that provide shops in your area.
