Mystery shoppers first stop here

[jackdotson]

Personally, I think you are being a little hard on SPS. So you know something that she doesn't? But there is something to be said for someone who is still getting the info out there. Not everyone knows what you know. Some people are more than willing to pay for information so that they don't have to do the research themselves. Oh, and by the way, you were new to this stuff at some point. Don't forget where you came from.

[Mom2]

Jack Dotson-Not sure if your post was directed at me-but there is simply no need to pay for information on mystery shopping when it is avaialble for free. Additionally, there are some places which offer such services that are in fact a scam. Thanks for your input!

Research the sites I mentioned during the beginning of this post and you can find out all the information you need mystery shoppers!

[syeliab]

Have to again stress the fact that you should never have to pay to get information on jobs, or to get listings, or anything else. Reputable companies get paid from the company who they are shopping, not you.

I have been doing shops since 2006. Started with 1 company, now work for several. I generally don't do reimbursement type shops, but that's just me. There's plenty of work out there, but you have to dig for it.

[AshleyIdler]

What do you know about Best Mark?

[Penelopeb]

goodness!! what a long thread, alot of good info though.

I am new to mystery shopping, how do I get around getting certified as a mystery shopper??

Also I live in the UK, near London. Anyone of any Mystery Shopping Agencies around this area?? and websites? Would be very gratful...

Thanks

[shopper4826]

Check this website out about GfK's Mystery Shopping: GfK Mystery Shopping - US Market Research Mystery Shopper Provider

This website helped me to gain a lot of knowledge and excitement about the subject. Mystery shopping is a great career for stay-at-home moms. As a stay at home mom, I plan to become a mystery shopper and gain extra money. You should too using the information in the link above!!!!

[Capmaster]

I'm happy to say I just got approved as a mystery shopper and have my first assignment. They'll be sending me a packet and the funds to complete the survey.

It took about 4 months for my background checks to be completed, but I got approved. Woo-hoo!

This sounds like a great WAH job!

Edit: Never mind. I went to the MSPA website and found out it was a scam email I received.

[ROBERT68]

Hello,

I live in Stamford, CT and I was wondering how can I become a mystery shopper? I have received many emails but they were not legit. Can you please give me some information on signing up to become a mystery shopper?

Thanks

[Capmaster]

Originally Posted by ROBERT68

Hello,

I live in Stamford, CT and I was wondering how can I become a mystery shopper? I have received many emails but they were not legit. Can you please give me some information on signing up to become a mystery shopper?

Thanks

I would suggest starting at Volition. Here is their website:
Volition® Mystery Shopping

Volition is a very good source of information and links.

You can look at some mystery shopping job postings by clicking the "Job Board" link.

It's a good idea to apply to several mystery shopping companies. You can get a very thorough list of those companies, and links to their websites, by clicking the " Mystery Shopping Companies List" link on the main page.

I personally am a shopper for Intellishop, Second To None, mVentix, ACE, KSS, Service Sleuth, Shopper View, Market Force (mystery shopper & also a Certified Field Associate), Confero and Secret Shopper.

Some mystery shopping/secret shopping firms also have a related, but separate function usually called "Field Associate". Some have an auditing function only. Those jobs usually involve auditing prices at a grocery store, and sometimes involve actually doing field work on behalf of a client. For example: Setting up a standee in the lobby of a movie theater or installing an end cap display in a retail store. In those cases you are actually performing a merchandising function and not just shopping. It might be worth considering as a mix with regular shopping assignments, as it usually pays better but requires more time, and there is a dress code.

[CrysLyn83]

what mystery shopping company do u work for? how do i get started???