Are you curious about the best mystery shopping companies and secret shopper jobs? Over the years, I’ve done a lot of mystery shopping to earn some extra cash. It didn’t make me rich, but it was a nice side income.
I first learned about mystery shopping when I worked at a store. Mystery shoppers would come in to check on our performance, and we’d later read their reports. I found it fascinating that people were getting paid to shop, so I decided to become a mystery shopper myself.
I used to make around $150 to $200 a month from mystery shopping. Plus, I got free stuff like $100 for restaurants (where I had to grade them), makeup, and other goodies.
If you’re interested in becoming a mystery shopper, you’re in the right place. There are many companies out there, but not all are created equal. Choosing the best one is crucial for working from home on your own schedule. The top-rated companies offer genuine opportunities, fair pay, easy onboarding, and a variety of assignments.
### What Is Mystery Shopping?
Mystery shopping is a way for businesses to check and improve their customer service, products, and overall experience. Companies hire mystery shoppers to act like regular customers, visit their locations, and provide detailed feedback. Your job is to observe, interact, and share your thoughts on the experience, helping businesses improve and keep customers happy.
### Why Mystery Shopping Is Helpful
Mystery shopping helps businesses evaluate their customer service and operations. It provides insights into employee performance, customer satisfaction, and potential operational issues. Your feedback as a mystery shopper can help businesses identify areas for improvement.
### How Much Can I Earn as a Mystery Shopper?
Mystery shoppers are typically paid in one of three ways:
1. **Cash and reimbursement**: You get paid for the job and get the product/service for free.
2. **Cash payment**: For tasks like phone call evaluations where you don’t buy anything.
3. **Reimbursement**: For example, restaurant assignments where you get free food but no extra cash.
Payments are usually made via direct deposit, check, PayPal, or gift card, typically 2 to 4 weeks after completing the assignment. Earnings vary based on assignment complexity, the company, and location, but generally range from $10 to $50 per job. Keep in mind that these opportunities are usually independent contractor positions, so income can be inconsistent.
### Best Mystery Shopping Companies
Here are some top mystery shopping companies:
**BestMark**: One of the largest and most reputable companies with a wide range of assignments. I’ve done over 50 mystery shops with them. They offer jobs at restaurants, beauty stores, clothing stores, electronics stores, car dealerships, movie theaters, retail stores, and more.
**Ath Power Consulting**: Specializes in the financial and banking industry, offering unique assignments in these sectors.
**IntelliShop**: Offers a variety of assignments in different industries. Your earnings depend on your shopper rating, which you can improve by providing detailed reports and following assignment guidelines.
**Market Force Information**: Allows you to shop at restaurants, gas stations, banks, movie theaters, and more. They even have website and mobile app assignments.
**iSecretShop**: A platform that connects you with various secret shopping jobs. Payments are handled by the clients who post the jobs.
**Secret Shopper**: With over 30 years of experience, they offer a variety of phone, in-person, and online shops.
**Pinnacle**: Focuses on financial institutions, providing valuable insights for clients in the banking industry.
**Sinclair Customer Metrics**: A reputable company with over 30 years in the industry, offering assignments in restaurants, stores, healthcare, banks, and more.
**A Closer Look**: Pays you to shop at stores, dine at restaurants, and try new businesses. They are hiring in the United States and Canada.
### Evaluating Mystery Shopping Companies
When choosing a mystery shopping company, consider the application process, payment methods, and frequency. Trustworthy companies have straightforward online applications and clear payment policies.
### Secret Shopping Scams to Avoid
Be cautious of scams in the mystery shopping world. Here are some tips:
– Never pay to work as a mystery shopper.
– Research companies thoroughly and look for negative reviews or scam reports.
– Beware of scams involving fake checks or gift cards.
– Trust your instincts and thoroughly research any opportunity that seems too good to be true.
### Frequently Asked Questions
**What are the top paying mystery shopper companies?**
BestMark and Market Force are known for high-paying assignments.
**How can I find legitimate mystery shopper jobs?**
Check out the companies mentioned above. They are all hiring and reputable.
**What is a disadvantage of being a mystery shopper?**
It’s not a full-time income, and the survey questions can be tedious.
**Do you have to pay tax on mystery shopping?**
Yes, you have to report your earnings and pay taxes.
**Do mystery shoppers keep what they buy?**
Usually, yes, you get reimbursed and often keep the items.
**What’s the difference between a mystery shopper and a secret shopper?**
They are the same thing.
**How many hours a week do mystery shoppers work?**
It varies, but most work a few hours a month as a side gig.
**How do I become a successful mystery shopper?**
Improve your observational and communication skills, stay organized, meet deadlines, seek new assignments, and join multiple companies.
### Summary
Mystery shopping is a fun way to earn some extra money and get free stuff. It’s not a full-time job, but it can be a rewarding side gig. If you’re interested, check out the companies mentioned and start your mystery shopping journey today.