Tips on how to get started in the business of secret shopping
- Don’t Get Ripped Off. Watch out for scams that usually come through e-mail, in newspapers or online. Never pay for advice or job listings.
- Find Real Jobs. Visit sites run by the Mystery Shopping Providers Association (http://www.mysteryshop.org/) or Secret Web Shopper (http://www.secretwebshopper.com/) where mystery shoppers go to find work, ask questions and chat.
- Get Certified. Another good source is Smiley University, an online school for mystery shoppers at http://www.aboutfacecorp.com/.
- Do a Background Check. Before accepting assignments, check the company’s reputation at the Better Business Bureau in that company’s local area as well as Volition’s forum.
- Keep Good Records. Be sure to separate fees, which are subject to income tax, from reimbursed expenses, which typically are not. Any un-reimbursed expenses may be eligible for deduction from your income, including use of a car, which will also need to be backed up with detailed records. Get expert tax advice.
Legitimate mystery shopping assignments usually pay around $US10 to $US25 or can be twice the amount if the assignment requires special expertise. Phone-in jobs can pay as little as 50 cents. Keep in mind that secret shoppers are independent contractors with no job security or benefits.
