Top 3 Myths of Mystery Shopping

If you're looking for additional income, enjoy trying out new things and a very observant shopper, mystery shopping might be for you. Companies have used mystery shoppers for years to help them assess the performance of an establishment and its employees. However, there are certain myths attached to mystery shopping. This article will shed light on the mystery of mystery shopping and dispel some myths .

Top 3 Myths of Mystery Shopping

• You'll get rich doing this. Contrary to those ads that claims you can get rich quick doing this, in reality, mystery shoppers don't earn that much. On a per assignment basis, you may earn anywhere between $8 to $20, sometimes even lower or higher than that. But if you are doing several shops per month, it would certainly become an added boost to your existing income.

• It's all expense paid. This is untrue. On most assignments you are required to pay a certain amount to conduct a shop. Your approved expense will be reimbursed and added to your shopper's fee. There are also shops where you won't be paid a fee but you get to keep the product, eat free or take advantage of a service for free.

• You have to pay in order to get hired. This is probably the biggest myth about mystery shopping. You do not have to pay in order to be hired as a mystery shopper. Websites that claims to give you a list of mystery shopping opportunities for a fee are bogus. You can do a Google search using keywords such as "mystery shopping" and most of these companies will be listed. A wealth of information about legitimate mystery shopping companies and opportunities can be readily found online; free for you to view and apply to.

Some Materials Mystery Shoppers Need

• Paper and pen - You will be doing a lot of note-taking so be sure to have a pen and paper handy. Don't take notes during your visit; do it afterwards when you're in your car or when you get home. Make sure you write it down as soon as possible so you don't forget anything.

• Stopwatch - To help you keep time accurately. If you don't have a stopwatch, you can keep track of time using your digital wristwatch. Cellphones also have built-in stopwatches.

• Computer and Internet connection - Most assignments are downloaded and reported online so you would need a computer and Internet connection to perform these tasks.

• Scanner - You will need to scan your receipts or other proof of documentation in order to get reimbursed. A scanner is handy since most of your reporting will be done online. Other companies also allow faxing and/or mailing documents..

Additional Tips

• You are considered a contractual worker and therefor be responsible for paying your own taxes.

• You must complete your assignments and submit necessary reports in a timely manner.

Companies to Try

• National Shopping Service

• Green and Associates