June 6th, 2006
Mystery shopping is a way to get some cash fast. It is good for college students, stay-at-home moms, retired people, as a second job, etc. Never heard of it? Here is a detailed description of this way to make money:
A mystery shopper is a freelance, professional shopper hired by large retail, restaurant, and movie theater chains to check up on their local stores, in order to make sure that customer service is good, stores are clean, etc. Mystery shopping services are also used by banks, hotels, casinos, and other service providers.
Most mystery shoppers are independent contractors who do the job part-time to make extra money. Pay is typically per assignment, not per hour, and varies based on the requirements of the “shop.” Compensation may include reimbursement of required purchases, such as the purchase of meals at a restaurant being mystery shopped. Mystery shopping assignments can often be fitted around a job, school, or family schedules.
Typically, a mystery shopper will check on a store by actually going in and purchasing an item.
They will have a report sheet in which they are asked a variety of questions about their experience. After a mystery shopper has checked a store, this person then turns in the report, which is given a score and sent to management. These reports are also often shared with the employees so that they have a better idea of their own strengths and weaknesses.
[source: wikipedia.org]
Unfortunately, there is much scam with this way to earn money. Rule #1: Never pay for a list of shops (it is true in case with ALL types of home based work). All real mystery shopping companies are FREE to sign up. So, you can easily avoid any scam by submitting no payments – your aim is to get them from the companies.
What can you expect to earn? As a rule, between $10-20.00 plus reimbursement. There are some companies paying as much as $50 a shop. The goal is to spot the right companies. Don’t jump at $5.00 shops (probably, you can start with this and then search for better deals). Wait for some specials. Your place of residence matters: it is good to reside close or in the big city: you needs stores to shop.
This is a good place to learn and get updated on mystery shopping.
Good lists with mystery shopping companies:
Summary:
Mystery shopping is a way to earn some extra money, it is definitely worth testing. If you reside in a big city or near – give it a try. Just remember to never pay for any lists and promises.
[tags]mystery shopping, work at home, home based job, freelance, self-employment, home work, business opportunity[/tags]
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