by Diane Walsh

Created on: August 17, 2010   Last Updated: August 18, 2010

You Can Make Money as a Mystery Shopper 

Mystery shopping is a job.  It takes time and communication skills.  The companies who employ mystery shoppers have a standard that they expect the shoppers to meet.  Doing an evaluation on a shop is more than walking in, purchasing an item and leaving.  You are required to observe many different aspects of the shop, the employees, the building, the parking lot and even the other customers. You then must file a detailed report with actuate time references and the report must be filed the day you complete the assignment.

What is a mystery shopper?  A mystery shopper is a person, male or female, who as an independent contractor gathers feedback about a store’s customer service. A mystery shopper provides a service for their clients and reports the findings back to the client.  As an independent mystery shopper you are your own company.  You are required to pay taxes on your income.  To be taxable the income must be over $600.00 a year.  You must look for you own assignments, schedule them and complete the paperwork.

What do you need to become a mystery shopper?

You must be 21 years old or older.

You must have reliable transportation.

You must have online Internet access.

You must be a detailed orientated person.

You must be reliable

You must have good written and oral communication skills.

Mystery shopping should be a fun, enjoyable job.  It requires your time and planning. If you think you have the qualification, let’s get started.

First step is to find a mystery shop that interests you.  There are several types of shops: fast food and casual dining, retail, wholesale, car rentals, audits, trailer checks, banking, and the list goes on.  Each company monitors different aspects for their company.  The best way to find your comfort zone is to apply and use the trial and select method.  Only you know what makes you happy and what type of mystery shopping you enjoy.

Then you need to apply.  Applications vary from company to company.  Some are as simple as signing up with your name, address and e-mail.  Other requires a test. The test could be writing a few sentences, going through a series of pictures relating to a shop and remembering the details.  And some require reading a scenario, remembering details, reviewing what is required at different shops and passing a test.  Companies do not want you to fail. They

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