What's the catch to being a secret shopper?

Question

I keep hearing about being a "secret shopper," someone who gets paid to go shopping, eat out, etc. and gets to keep what they buy, in exchange for providing criticism and information about the businesses they visit, I suppose. What's the catch? Has anyone ever been a secret shopper? It sounds like a pretty good deal to me.

Answer 1

Most of the secret shopper deals are pretty good "little money" things. For example, you might go to a restaurant as a secret shopper, order a meal up to a certain dollar amount, and then afterward the rating service will reimburse that much of the meal and a specified and preset amount past.

Most of the time the extra money past what you spend is between $5 to 20 dollars and isn't much more than gas money, but hey, it makes the meal free, etc.

Another example might be to try a particular perfume, etc. at a specific store, to see if the clerk does the appropriate up sells, etc. Or a jewelry store trying on certain types of rings, bracelets, stuff like that.

So there are many kinds of secret shopper opportunities, but again, the theme is that you won't make alot of money.

Answer 2

I've done it for years. The pay isn't too great ($7-$20 per shop). You basically need to go to a reputable site (one that doesn't charge you a membership fee like gofeedback.com or secretshopnet.com) and sign up. They'll tell you within minutes if they have available openings in your area.

Most of them you have to be 18 or older. You basically go to the store and then fill out a questionnaire. Sometimes they tell you what day and time you have to go; others leave it up to you. It takes about a month to get paid and it's via check or direct deposit.

Just be honest because they will double-check all info you submit.

Answer 3

There are reliable companies recruiting secret shoppers.You have to apply to become a mystery shopper at the websites of these market research companies. They will then contact you if they have any assignment in your area. List of companies where you can apply free and links to relevant websites available at http://tinyurl.com/n474j

Answer 4

in addition to shopgirlt...all businesses use them, banks restaurants gas stations ....etc. However you don't allways get to keep anything you buy..if you buy anything. I was one for Bloomingdale's and all I did was shop and try on things and ask questions then fill out a form. I was told when to go and what department to check out. But I did get paid 100.00 per visit...good luck and if you do it have fun!!