What is mystery shopping?
A type of market research, it is a standard and common business practice where service evaluations are made without the store’s personnel being aware that they are being “shopped”. Mystery shopping provides information about client-established customer service standards. This information then allows companies to adjust training and award bonuses that help turn their service vision into reality. Good customer service benefits us all.​
 

What does a mystery shopper do?

​​Anonymous “shoppers” pose as ordinary customers and evaluate the business based on service, cleanliness, food quality and other factors that the client may require. As a part-time Independent Contractor (not an employee), you would receive complete guidelines for each shop that you choose to accept. Average shop time is between 1 and 2 hours.



What can I expect?
You can expect to work as much or as little as you want. There are certain days and times that shops are required to be performed but for the most part, you are able to make your own schedule. Most companies hire you as an independent contractor instead of an employee. This means they don't take out taxes so it's up to you to put aside the amount needed to pay come tax time. Bonus: If you make less than $600 a year you don't need to pay any taxes. Best of all, you can expect to have fun and actually get paid for something you enjoy doing for a change.

​

How do I get started?
I would suggest applying to as many different companies as you can since many only have a couple shops a month this will give you more opportunities to work. Some companies have a very short and simple application and others make you jump through a few hoops, but not any more than a 'real' job. So, use the links provided to sign up today.

​

​Why do companies want to pay me to shop and eat out at restaurants?
I'm sure at one time you have stopped by a McDonalds, Subway, KFC or one of the many other fast food joints. Why? Not because you want something new, but because you know exactly what to expect. Whether you're in California, Minnesota or Florida you know you can expect the same thing. Now, in order for headquarters to make sure you are recieving the same service and same level of quality around the country they need people like you that are willing to give them the facts from an 'ordinary' customer viewpoint. This helps them to ensure consistancy. The information you provide is used to improve customer service for future visits.​

​

What qualifications do I need?
You need to pay attention to details and be able to communicate your shopping experience in a professional manner. Good grammer skills as well as organizational skills will be vital to your success. Some places will require you to take pictures and upload them to the websites. Most all companies are online now so knowledge and ability to scan documents and email them are essential.

​

How much money can I make?
That is completely up to you. Realistically, this is a part time gig that will give you a few extra hundred dollars a month. It's not going to make you rich. Shops pay from $5-$80 with most between $10-$20, depending on how in depth the evaluation is. A quick 5 minute shop isn't going to pay as much as one that takes 45 minutes. If you live in a rural area you may not have as many opportunities as someone who lives in a large city. The more places you apply, the more opportunities you will have. The more thorough you are, the more companies will hire you again and again.