Like shopping? Read this....

If you like shopping, have you ever thought about mystery shopping?  After my 2nd child was born, a good friend told me how she began shopping and getting paid for it.  Now, don't believe all those websites that tell you, you can make a full time income off this but there is definitely money to be made.  Here are some tips to becoming a successful mystery shopper:

1. NEVER pay money to a company that promises you'll have access to thousands of shops.  There is at least one legitimate company out there who does ask for money but you can really find the information for free if you do the digging.  
2. Make sure you only list the facts on your shopping reports.  The companies really aren't interested in your opinion but they do want to know exactly what happened when you conducted the shop.
3. All shops have a deadline and it's your responsibility to get your report in on time.  If you do need to reschedule due to an emergency, make sure you call them.  If not, many companies say they will end your contract with them.
4. Obey the rules of the shop.  Some shops say you can have children with you some say you have to be alone.  I know of one mom who brought her 5 kids with her on an "alone" shop.  She didn't get paid because the store checked the security cameras and saw she had her kids.
5. Sign up with several companies for more work.  At the bottom of this entry I list my favorite companies to work with.  
6. Remember that you will most likely contract as an Independent Contractor with the companies.  That means you are responsible for your taxes.
7. If you try out mystery shopping and love it, become MSPA certified.  It does cost a little money and there is an exam (all done online) but companies that hire mystery shoppers will select an MSPA shopper over one that is not certified.  Usually the higher paying shops ask for MSPA certification.

There are many companies that you can contract with.   Here are my favorites (click the name of the company to go to their website):

Intellishop - my husband and I have both done shops where we get meals at restaurants or free oil changes.  Great company and they always pay on time.

Secret Shopper - we've done mostly veterinarian shops with this company.  They reimburse you a high amount plus pay you for the vet. shop - since our family has 2 dogs this has been a great help. 

National Shopping Service - used to do restaurant shops with them.  Recently they've been offering ones for big events (Disney Princesses on Ice) and reimburse you for two tickets, concessions, and pay you for the report.  They are wonderful to work with if you need to reschedule a shop and always paid promptly.

Marketforce (formerly known as Shop N' Chek) - I started out with this company and did simple donut shop and convenience store reports.  If you've never done mystery shopping, this is a great one to start out with.

In conclusion, mystery shopping can be a fun way to make some extra money.  Feel free to ask me any questions and I'll do my best to help!