Mystery Shopping FAQ

What is Mystery Shopping?

Mystery shoppers get paid to shop, but what do they do in exchange? They provide valuable feedback to the companies that hire them. Basically, mystery shopping is under-cover quality control for customer service. You go to the store, shop, give your feedback, and get paid. That's mystery shopping in a nutshell.

How much can I earn as a mystery shopper?

You won't get rich! But most assignments pay $10-$35 each. Many shoppers are able to make a few hundred dollars a month. This is perfect for people who want to supplement an existing income. Don't expect to make a living as a mystery shopper.

What companies can I mystery shop at?

Any business that has customers is likely to have a mystery shopping program, or would benefit from them. Fast food restaurants, department stores, bowling alleys, and even doctors offices employ mystery shoppers. And this is just scratching the surface. Go to your local mall. Nearly every store is mystery shopped. Even insurance agencies, accounting companies, and banks employ mystery shoppers. Of course, in order to shop at these companies, you'll need to sign up with the relevant firms, and apply to the assignments you want. (Sign up below and we'll get you started.)

Should I pay to join a mystery shopping company?

This is completely un-necessary, and somewhat backwards. The companies should be paying you to shop! It may be worth it to invest your money in books about mystery shopping, or even joining an agency that refers you to mystery shopping companies with assignments, but it is not necessary. In fact, you can get started completely free. Sign up below and we'll send you a free list of companies with assignments available.

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Everything is completely free. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking "unsusbscribe" at the bottom of the emails you receive. See our complete privacy policy, and terms of service. Please note that mystery shopping is real work, not a get rich quick scheme. You'll have to complete your assignments in order to get paid.