If you enjoy shopping, dining out, or exploring new businesses, mystery shopping can be a fun and flexible way to earn extra cash. Companies rely on mystery shoppers to evaluate customer service, product quality, and overall store experience, and they pay for your feedback. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or just a way to get reimbursed for meals and purchases, mystery shopping could be a great fit for you.
Mystery shopping is when businesses hire individuals to visit stores, restaurants, or service providers undercover to assess their customer experience. As a mystery shopper, your job is to act like a regular customer, follow specific instructions, and report back on your experience.
Companies use mystery shoppers to:
1. Sign Up with Legitimate Mystery Shopping Companies
Many reputable mystery shopping companies exist, but scams are common. Legitimate companies never ask for upfront fees or personal financial information. Here are some well-known, trustworthy mystery shopping networks:
2. Create a Shopper Profile
After signing up, you’ll need to complete a profile detailing your demographics, interests, and shopping habits. Companies use this information to match you with relevant assignments.
3. Browse and Apply for Assignments
Once approved, you can log in to your mystery shopping portal to view available assignments. These may include:
1. Follow Instructions Carefully
Every mystery shopping assignment has detailed requirements. You might need to ask specific questions, note employee names, or check for promotional signage. Missing key details can lead to your report being rejected and forfeiting your payment.
2. Take Notes Discreetly
You’ll often need to remember specific details about your visit, but taking notes openly can give away your identity. Try jotting down details on your phone or writing them down immediately after leaving the store.
3. Submit Reports on Time
Most assignments require you to submit a report within 24 hours. Reports typically ask about service quality, employee interactions, and overall experience. The more detailed and accurate your reports, the more likely you’ll be assigned higher-paying jobs in the future.
4. Look for High-Paying Assignments
Some mystery shopping gigs pay more than others. High-paying assignments often involve:
5. Beware of Scams
Unfortunately, mystery shopping scams exist. Red flags include:
Mystery shopping won’t make you rich, but it can be a steady way to earn extra cash. Pay varies by assignment:
The more assignments you complete successfully, the more likely you’ll be offered higher-paying gigs.
Final Thoughts
Mystery shopping is a flexible and enjoyable way to make extra money while experiencing new businesses. Whether you’re looking to supplement your income, get free meals, or enjoy some retail therapy, it’s a rewarding side hustle when done correctly.
Are you ready to get started? Sign up with a reputable mystery shopping company today and start earning while you shop!
Join LevelSurveys and Get Paid for your Opinions
Earn bonuses and level up when you complete more surveys!
Start Earning >
We did the research and the results are in. Here are the most surprising yet effective work-from-home side-gigs.
Here's another way to supplement your income, in addition to online surveys. Your personal property can be leveraged for additional income.
There are ways to maximize your income from participating in clinical trials. We break down the best strategies.
Make sure you're not falling for these traps!
Our members have found house sitting and pet sitting can also provide a nice supplemental income.