Work-From-Home Job Spotlight: Mystery Shopper

Each Thursday, I highlight a different work-from-home job or business.

Position: Mystery Shopper


Education: No formal education required.

Skills: The ability to stealthily report on the service level and products on a variety of businesses, including restaurants, retail, banking, etc.

Job outlook: Varies, depending on your location (bigger cities tend to have more mystery shops available). Most restaurant shops reimburse a specific amount for food purchases, while other shops pay a flat rate. Assignments can be sporadic.

Possible employers: Companies like Bare International, A Closer Look, Secret Shopper and Volition Mystery Shopping gives listings of shops for members (you can join these sites for free). One note of caution: Do not pay to become an “official” mystery shopper. Legitimate sites do not ask for upfront payment.

Preparation: You will need access to a computer to apply for shops and to fill out the reports. Being able to take notes unobtrusively and to observe details is very important to a good mystery shopper.

Get your foot in the door: Become a certified silver or gold member of the MSPA (Mystery Shopper Providers Association). It’s worth the small fee, as some mystery shopping sites require a silver or gold certification. To receive the certification, you go through a short online tutorial and then take an online test.
Until next time,

Sarah

Want to know about mystery shopping?

The May issue of At Home News, my free e-newsletter, delves behind-the-scenes of a mystery shopper. Sign up at the newsletter page and find out how you can become a secret shopper.

Until next time,


Sarah