by Christa Barbari Jan. 25, 2024
| As we write, these job listings are online and applications appear to be open. But jobs can fill at any time, so apply or share quickly if you’re interested! Sorry, but we have no role in the HR processes of other companies. If you encounter difficulties in the application process please contact them directly. Good luck in your hunt, and may you be working from home soon! |
Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a successful mystery shopper?
Who hires them, why, and what does it take to make the grade? We have researched, shopped, and grabbed a new shopper on their first trip to give you an overview of what is involved.
There are many types of mystery shops. Surveys, product testing, and site visits are just a few ways shopping services are used in the marketplace. Just about any business can employ the data of mystery shops.
If you enjoy trying new things, are detail-oriented, and enjoy documentation, mystery shopping may be for you. Here are a few tips, tricks, and leads to ensure you make your first “shop” (your assignment) a success!
The 1st step — choosing a shopping company.
There are scams, so read the fine print and ensure you are signing with a reputable agency. In our research, we came across several scams on social media and job boards. Due diligence is a must. For more information about protecting yourself from scams, see Spotting Scams – Don’t Become a Victim, module 2 from our FREE COURSE: How to Find and Land a Real Work from Home Job.
Another great option is utilizing MSPA America. They represent mystery shoppers, and many companies rely on them for training and maintaining industry standards. You can search registered businesses without becoming a member, and they also supply helpful industry tips and hold major conventions and training events. As of this writing, they offer new members their “Intro to Mystery Shopping course” for free.
I took a new shopper on a site visit to see what they thought of the process.
Our assignment was an ample art exhibition. Newbie and I are both art fans, so it’s a great way to spend the day for FREE. We even came home with a unique souvenir, and tasted craft margaritas and coffees as part of our assignment. We spent three hours touring the attraction and had a great time.
Also, enjoy some of the photos we took during the secret shop!
Here is what we came away with that was vital to our success:
1. Your “shop” is a secret:
Be friendly and behave as you normally would. The whole point is to blend in and not be known to your targets. You never want to correct or announce you will be reporting to improve a situation. You are an observer of the details.
2. Be prepared, and double-check your data.
Take a moment to check all your points before you leave the shop. In the moment, it is easy to forget small details that will affect the trip. We would have missed two essential items without stopping to assess on our test trip. Any deviations from instructions can lead to reductions in pay, or they can refuse your shop. So make sure you have it covered!
3. The better you get, the better your shot at top-tier opportunities.
As with many gigs, the more assignments you complete well, the better your chances of access to premium gigs. After we conducted our shop, our reports received a grade that mentioned ways to improve in the future. Being good at implementing changes on the fly — with a smile — helps!
4. You control the show.
You can shop for multiple companies. As an independent contractor, you can provide services to many companies. You have complete control, and you only accept assignments that interest you.
Are you ready to take the plunge? Here are some leads to get you started:
Field Agent touts its simplicity and variety of work available—an excellent option for newcomers. “Download the Field Agent App Reserve and complete a job. We check your submission. Get paid.” Easy enough! Assignments range from surveys to mystery shops and “buy and try” events.
Another to consider is Gigwalk. A Gigwalk customer posts work as “Gigs” that show up on the app. You find gigs in your area that look like a good fit.
Per the site, “You can pick Gigs that take anywhere from 5 minutes to a few hours or based on how much you want to make – from $3 to $100 or more… Gigs are primarily posted by consumer brands and retailers… They are looking to verify products are available on the shelf and displayed/priced correctly or that marketing events are done accurately and on-time…”
More options follow below!
Confero: Be your boss. Choose the hours, days, and locations for your evaluations/audits/shops. You will assist clients in fine-tuning their processes in person or via telephone. Find out more in their shoppers center.
About Face offers shops in all 50 states and Canada. They say: It’s no surprise that we’re MSPA Americas’ Most Decorated Customer Experience and Mystery Shopping Provider.
Intellishop: Per the site, We only contract with the best. We’re looking for detail-oriented, insightful individuals to help our clients understand and improve their brand experience. If this sounds like you, we want to meet. You can check out their shopper’s page for more information.
Amusement Advantage can be a good option for those who enjoy entertainment. AA offers shops at top attractions, from exhibitions to movie screenings. You have to supply samples of your writing before being approved to shop; attention to detail is critical. Staff is available for contact even on weekends should any problems occur. Pay is through Paypal.
Perception Strategies offers medical mystery shops. You will interact with and observe patients, physicians, employees, and competitors. Assignments can include appointment calls, customer service calls, or in-person observation shops. Learn more about the process here.
A Closer Look: “A large part of what we do is conduct market research for companies that want to measure quality of sales and service, job performance, and operational compliance. We work with independently contracted Mystery Shoppers to help our clients collect organic and unbiased data about their business…”
For more choices, check out The Ultimate BIG LIST of Work from Home Jobs. Over 1000 vetted employers looking for remote workers are waiting for you!
HOW TO APPLY
(Friendly reminder, Rat Race Rebellion doesn’t play a role in the applications or hiring processes for jobs we’ve posted to our site. We’re a job board and blog.)
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