It sounds like a dream come true, doesn’t it? Having someone pay for your shopping, and pay you to shop? Well, for some, it’s a reality. “How?!” we hear you cry. By becoming a mystery shopper! Brands use mystery shopping as a way to check that certain standards are being met day to day, and not just when inspections take place. Mystery shopping takes place everywhere from big brand retailers to restaurants and even doing things like making an enquiry in the bank or having your eyes tested. You can even mystery shop pubs and bars to see if they ID you if you’re lucky enough to look underage!
How do I become a mystery shopper?
Registering to become a mystery shopper is relatively easy. There are a number of agencies out there, who each represent a number of brands. Market Force and GfK are perhaps the biggest agencies in the UK, and offer mystery shopping services to a number of big brands. To sign up with an agency, you’ll usually need to fill out a short registration form or questionnaire so that the agency can find out a bit more about you. Then, you can read shopper briefs and apply for opportunities to mystery shop at stores or brands that appeal to you. You’ll get further instructions on your assignment if you’re selected.
Can anyone become a mystery shopper?
In theory, yes – anyone can sign up. How many opportunities you’re given, though, will depend on your profile and how good a job you do as you build up experience. To be a good mystery shopper you’ll need a good memory, excellent observation skills and the ability to communicate what you’ve seen and experienced clearly. You’ll also need to be OK with working to strict deadlines. While you can apply for as many or as few assignments as you like, applying regularly and being committed to your assignments will help you to succeed.
Related: How to get freebies by becoming a product tester
What does mystery shopping involve?
What you’ll do as a mystery shopper varies between assignments. After all, different brands offer different products and experiences, and will want you to check up on different things. A mystery shopping assignment could be as quick as popping into a bank to make an enquiry, or as long as popping off on a weekend break to mystery “shop” a hotel. Whatever you’re asked to do as a mystery shopper, though, you’ll be required to report back on your experience with a written review and often photos, too. The exact requirements will be given in the shopper brief before you apply.
How much can I earn by mystery shopping?
In the past, mystery shopping had the earning potential to become a full-time job. However, that no longer seems to be the case. Nowadays, mystery shoppers are normally given a set budget or a voucher to spend with a particular brand. Then, they’re allowed to keep the item(s) they purchase by way of remuneration. Sometimes, an agency will pay a small fee for your time as well. This isn’t guaranteed, though, and is likely to only be £10-15.
Rather than a career change or side-earner, mystery shopping seems better as a way to bag a few freebies. As long as your brief doesn’t require you return them later, that is!
Could you be a mystery shopper? Give it a go and find out!
