Mystery shopping is a lot more than simply getting paid to shop. These types of assignments can be used to supplement your income, and you may be surprised to learn that there is writing involved. Mystery shopping is a multi-billion dollar industry that helps companies to get a clear idea of how well their employees are interacting with customers. An unhappy customer is more likely to leave and decide not to return than to mention their concerns to management, and this directly affects the company’s bottom line.
When you sign up with a mystery shopping company, you have the option of choosing to take assignments when it’s convenient for you to do so. You will be given detailed instructions before you start your shop, and you may be reimbursed for your purchase as well as paid a fee. After you complete your assignment, you will need to write a report about your experience.
Reports prepared by other mystery shoppers need to be checked over as well, and mystery shopping companies hire editors as well as shoppers. Depending on where the company is located, you can get work on a contract basis as a translator as well.
Working with a mystery shopping company is a way to make some extra money during times when you don’t have as much writing work as you would like. As you gain experience, you will be offered better paying assignments, and more opportunities will open up for you. To find out more about working as a mystery shopper, visit the Mystery Shoppers Providers Association web site.
Great post. As a tech writer turned SAHM, I found mystery shopping a great way to bring in some extra money and keep my writing skills sharp. Before my kids were in school, I wanted something to do, but wasn’t able to devote the blocks of time required for freelance writing. Mystery shopping was perfect. I got a higher paying regular shops and made around 5K a year. Lots of fun.
I’m a mystery shopper (shh don’t tell anyone) but things have been a bit slow lately. But yeah, it is pretty easy money if you live in an urban area.
It really is an interesting way to make some extra cash. I have enjoyed some new places that I would not have otherwise been able to try. Being a SAHM, I like that I can “get out” and “get paid” at the same time! Good luck!
Also, there are many scams out there. Make sure to go with MSPA company like Bestmark Mystery Shopping Company