Secret Shoppers

[LisaRKR]

I was wondering if anyone had links to any of the secret shopper sites??? I used to belong to one that had the word Brown in the name. I lost the info though when my computer crashed. It wasn't one of the hokey ones that you have to do all kinds of offers first. It was a true secret shopper site. One assignment was Waffle House in which I received my meal expense back plus like $10. Then I also did a really really great one for Yves Delorme. They have GREAT, really EXPENSIVE linens and bedding. I could purchase up to $75 worth of merchandise and they refunded my cost. I even got to keep my towels! Who knew 4 hand towel could cost sooooo much!

If anyone knows of any, it would be greatly appreciated if you could give us a link!

Thanks!

[L711inda]

I was wondering if anyone had links to any of the secret shopper sites??? I used to belong to one that had the word Brown in the name. I lost the info though when my computer crashed. It wasn't one of the hokey ones that you have to do all kinds of offers first. It was a true secret shopper site. One assignment was Waffle House in which I received my meal expense back plus like $10. Then I also did a really really great one for Yves Delorme. They have GREAT, really EXPENSIVE linens and bedding. I could purchase up to $75 worth of merchandise and they refunded my cost. I even got to keep my towels! Who knew 4 hand towel could cost sooooo much!

If anyone knows of any, it would be greatly appreciated if you could give us a link!

Thanks!

Here's the one I belong to! It's called GfK Mystery Shopping and I've done a couple of shops with them. It's also recommended by Tory Johnson, the Women for Hire company and website. The one paid $10 and the other one paid $12, plus I got a free lunch! The site link is www.cybershoppersonline.com. Good Luck!

[LisaRKR]

L711inda,

Thanks for sharing!!! I am going to sign up now! Thanks again!:D

[sheilas29]

Lisa....

I belong to a secret shopper also.... I do gas stations where I buy gas and an item inside. Answer a bunch of questions... take photos of the places I go to and upload them to the site. I also do Hardees... Dairy Queen.... and one that our company does is the Post Office Secret shop where you go in and mail something. But I can't sign up for those as I work at the post office. It is.... https://www.virtuoso.maritzresearch.com/profile/default.asp
My ID is 263375 I don't know that you can put my number in anywhere or not. This is one that you DON'T have to pay for to join! I will not pay.... Oh... I did an insurance company shop... I had to call 6 different insurance companies and get insurance quotes for my car insurance.... took only a couple of hours.... but I got $75 for it!! :p

Sheila

[L711inda]

L711inda,

Thanks for sharing!!! I am going to sign up now! Thanks again!:D

You're most welcome! Good Luck! :)

[sweetie6886]

the maritz site requires you to enter in a ss #. not sure if i trust that.

[mom363546]

the maritz site requires you to enter in a ss #. not sure if i trust that.


I am ver familiar with this site. I am a member as well as they are a sister company to maritz in kirksville ,mo Approx 10 miles from me. The online company does secret shoppers and the facility in my area does surveys.Lets say you rent a car from enterprise (thats a big acct of theres) they call you after the rental to see how your service was. They employ approx 300 people paying approx $10 per hour ( that is good pay for this area Plus it is mostly teens and over 50). hope this helps. :)

I wanted to add that in the last 5 years most of our factories in this area has closed putting many folks out of good paying jobs. Maritz in Kirksville is actually one of our biggest employers they are currently hiring 25 more for both days and nights. A few years back they built a larger facility.They just keep growing!

[L711inda]

Hi, Sheila!

I just signed up! I don't know if I'll get accepted or not, but we'll see! I really like doing this so I hope they sign me up! Thanks for the info about them!

Linda

[TAMMY293115]

Not sure what area you live in but try www.shopnchek.com. I have been with them for over 2 years. You will have to fill out a job app. but when I joined they did not charge me in anyway. You are able to accept or deny any shop that is avaiable in your area. Some shops you have to purchase a meal or a item but you get to keep the item and the will cover to cost up to a certain amount which they let you know before you do the shop. They only send checks out once a month and you are considered a indepentent contractor. I just completed a shop for a whole sale club where I was able to get a membership and 13 dollars in merchandise plus I was paid 8 dollars for doing the shop..it was great a memebership is over 40 dollars and they paid for it. I have had no problems with them and they also offer a direct deposit for you to receive payment faster each month. Hope this helps....Have a great weekend.

[SchackSampler]

Jancyn is a good company to shop for.
It may take a while to get a shop from them but once you complete one satisfactorily, they will send you more. I've done shops at department stores, salons, restaurants and apartment buildings. Jancyn seems to have the shops that pay the most or that you get the most product/services from.
www.jancyn.com

Sights on Service
Shorter shops, tend to have more in smaller towns and not much in my area so I did very few with them but they have more offers than Jancyn. I think this is the company that offers the mail order shops.
www.secretshopper.com

[L711inda]

Does anybody have any information on Shadow Shopper, please? Thanks much!

[ASeven721]

Does anybody have any information on Shadow Shopper, please? Thanks much!

The only thing I can tell you about it is that you have to pay a monthly fee I believe. I tried it out for a trial for like 4.95 for the first month. It looked alright, but just to busy at the time to keep up with it.

[L711inda]

The only thing I can tell you about it is that you have to pay a monthly fee I believe. I tried it out for a trial for like 4.95 for the first month. It looked alright, but just to busy at the time to keep up with it.

Okay, thanks! I thought the whole idea was for companies to pay you to be a secret shopper, not the other way around! I guess I'll stick to those kind!

[TAMMY293115]

Hello,
I have a web site that you may want to look into. I joined them about 2 years ago and I have had no problems with them. Go to www.shopnchek.com
When I joined they had me fill out a application online. I never paid a cent. I was hired as a independent contractor and have been a secret shopper for them ever since. I was a little worried when I first started because I have heard some scary thing about different sites. Some shops they offer you have to purchase items, but they refund your money (for example: ...I have to purchase a item of my choice and they will refund up to 8 dollars for the item I also make 8 dollars for doing the shop plus I get to keep what I purchased.) They offer different shops and if you do not wish to take them you may decline them. They DO NOT pay for gas. (keep that in mind) You get paid once a month either by check in the mail or direct deposit. I have done shops for retail stores, restaurants, book stores and cell phone shops just to name a few. If you have the extra time and want to make a few dollars check out the site I think you may be interested. ;)

[mom2fussbudgets]

Thanks, Tammy. It sounds great!

[caryn]

Thanks for the information. I filled out the questionaire and have already been accepted. I used to do secret shopping and am excited about returning to it!:)

[caryn]

Here is another mystery shop agency. It did not cost me anything to join.

http://baidata.com

[NCchick]

But are these companies trustworthy?
They ask a lot of personal questions. SSN and bank information.
Don’t want my life savings stolen from me. May not be much, but it is mine!

[TAMMY293115]

But are these companies trustworthy?
They ask a lot of personal questions. SSN and bank information.
Don’t want my life savings stolen from me. May not be much, but it is mine!

I CAN TELL YOU THAT SHOP N' CHEK IS...THE REASON THAT THEY ASK FOR YOUR SSN IS DUE TO YOU HAVE TO CLAIM IT ON YOU FEDERAL TAXES. I HAVE MY CHECKS MAILED TO ME, SO I DO NOT BELIEVE I GAVE THEM ANY OF MY BANK INFORMATION
( BUT YOU ARE TALKING OVER TWO YEARS AGO THAT I JOINED) I GET THEM EVERY THIRD WEEK OF THE MONTH AND HAVE NOT HAD ANY PROBLEM AND AT THE END OF THE YEAR I GET THAT LOVELY 1099 FORM FOR THE TAX MAN.....LOL..;)

[Brbie]

How do you prove how much you spend at these shops? Do you have to send receipts or what?:confused:

[TAMMY293115]

How do you prove how much you spend at these shops? Do you have to send receipts or what?:confused:

You have to send in your receipts, I keep a copy just incase but never needed them.:)

[Brbie]

Thank you for answering my question. I appreciate it. ;)

[kimadams546]

If you go to www.volition.com/mystery, you can access a list of almost every mystery shopping company website that exists. You have to sign up with every company individually. Some companies only require you to register with them and you automatically get notices of shops they have available. Some companies require you to go through an application process where you have to submit writing samples, take a quiz, etc.

I have been mystery shopping for a couple of years now, and I can tell you that the companies listed on the Volition website are all legitimate companies.

[bvanpeltsw]

Shop N Chek is great and I have already done 4 shops for them in my first week.

I would definitely check it out!

[bvanpeltsw]

I do have to say that I signed up with Shop N Chek and I have been paid $61 for the first month. I went the direct deposit route and I am really loving the program. I have done over 15 shops in my first month. I cannot wait to get my second check:)

[rebate queen]

Applied for Shop'N Chek 5 days ago and already got accepted. I was very excited til I looked at the assignments. The closest one was 30 minutes away and about 10 others were an hour or more away. Is this how it normally goes? I'm not in a small town-it's I'd say medium and one of the fastest growing in the country. Anybody got any info for me?? Thanks

[mom2fussbudgets]

I'm gonna have to check this place out!

[Cpogie]

You are doing a service for this company? they do not pay gas mileage, just a set price for reporting to them, how can you make any $$ paying for gas, your time, wear and tear on your vehicle, etc, I would think if you had an area that included stores that you normally go to then it might be ok because you are going to go there anyways, but remember it is this company that is getting paid alot of money for these surveys and you are getting very little in return, but if you enjoy doing this, then no problem! go for it.

[rebate queen]

No, I'm not doing them unless they are worth it! I declined every offer they had because I'm not going out of my way to do them. I was hoping they were right here in town. Then I could schedule my massage clients that I have to travel to close to that time and actually be able to deduct the mileage on my taxes. I'll stay in it for awhile and see if they offer anything better.
The shops are actually paid in more than one way-many times you make a purchase-you get to keep it--you get reimbursed for it--and they pay you for the shop. We'll see...I'll post updates

[TAMMY293115]

No, I'm not doing them unless they are worth it! I declined every offer they had because I'm not going out of my way to do them. I was hoping they were right here in town. Then I could schedule my massage clients that I have to travel to close to that time and actually be able to deduct the mileage on my taxes. I'll stay in it for awhile and see if they offer anything better.
The shops are actually paid in more than one way-many times you make a purchase-you get to keep it--you get reimbursed for it--and they pay you for the shop. We'll see...I'll post updates

I HAVE BEEN WITH SHOP N' CHEK FOR A COUPLE OF YEARS , I GET SHOPS THAT ARE LESS THEN FIVE MILES BUT SOMETIMES I TAKE SOME THAT ARE UP TO 15 MILES AWAY. WHEN THEY CAN NOT GET SOMEONE TO DO THE SHOP THEY UP THE SHOP FEE, I JUST DID A CELL PHONE SHOP AND GOT PAID 15 DOLLARS TO DO IT AND IT WAS ONLY ABOUT 2 MILES AWAY. I ALSO HAVE THE PROBLEM WHEN SOMETIMES THE ONLY SHOPS THAT ARE LISTED ARE LIKE 30 MILES FROM MY HOUSE BUT KEEP CHECKING, SOMEDAYS THERE MAY ONLY BE ONE SHOP LISTED FOR YOUR AREA AND 2 HOURS LATER WHEN YOU GO BACK IN THERE IS 10. KEEP IN MIND THAT YOU MAY NOT BE THE ONLY SHOPPER IN YOUR AREA. GAS IS A BUMMER WHEN YOU ARE LOOKING AT THREE DOLLARS A GALLON, I KEEP A LOG TO SEE JUST WHAT I AM SPENDING FOR GAS....LAST MONTH I RECEIVED A CHECK FOR 268 DOLLARS, I SPENT 30 IN GAS, AND 108 IS WHAT I HAD TO PUT UP FRONT THAT WAS REIMBURSED SO I MADE 138 DOLLARS. IT DOES HELP THAT I LIVE NEAR THREE DIFFERENT MALLS AND SOMETIMES GET LUCKY AND HAVE THREE TO FOUR SHOPS TO DO IN THE SAME MALL. GIVE IT A CHANCE BUT AT THE SAME TIME FACTOR IN WHAT YOU WILL HAVE TO SPEND UP FRONT AND WHAT YOU WILL BE GETTING BACK.

[Cpogie]

Oh yes, if they pay you and give you your purchase then great, even better if you can fit it in while you are in the general area....

[rebate queen]

Thanks for the info-I appreciate you taking your time to do that:)

[mom2fussbudgets]

Me too. I applied earlier today. We'll see what happens!

[lizmolik]

Me too. I applied earlier today. We'll see what happens!

I applied too. :) Hope I will get in!

[yyz903]

I CAN TELL YOU THAT SHOP N' CHEK IS...THE REASON THAT THEY ASK FOR YOUR SSN IS DUE TO IF YOU MAKE OVER 600 DOLLARS FOR THE YEAR YOU DO HAVE TO CLAIM IT ON YOU FEDERAL TAXES. I HAVE MY CHECKS MAILED TO ME, SO I DO NOT BELIEVE I GAVE THEM ANY OF MY BANK INFORMATION
( BUT YOU ARE TALKING OVER TWO YEARS AGO THAT I JOINED) I GET THEM EVERY THIRD WEEK OF THE MONTH AND HAVE NOT HAD ANY PROBLEM AND AT THE END OF THE YEAR I GET THAT LOVELY 1099 FORM FOR THE TAX MAN.....LOL..;)


FYI: All income is taxable to the federal government...not just the amount over $600. Companies are only required to send a 1099 for amounts over $600, the government wants you to report all of your income. ;)

[bvanpeltsw]

I really hope that all of you have luck with it. I was just picked to do a secret shop for ----and I am excited!

[mom2fussbudgets]

Congrats! That's awesome!

I got my welcome e-mail this morning! I'm a bit disappointed with the shops in my area though. There was only one available in Tulsa, and I was required to order a specific item from the menu--which was something I didn't like. Hopefully some good ones will come my way soon!

[mom2fussbudgets]

Okay, I did my first shop this morning, and I had to time the person who helped me, and it was tough (it had to be exact; I even had to use seconds)! You have to move fast, remember your times, and do it all without letting the clerk know what you're doing. Any suggestions?

[rebate queen]

I don't know--I need suggestions too. I'm going to do my first one Sunday.

[mom2fussbudgets]

That's who I did mine for also. It's like I said, doing the timing part was tough! Especially at the Drive-thru.

[mom2fussbudgets]

BTW, are we allowed to talk about who we do shops for?

[rebate queen]

Probably not---I'll look back at the rules and let you know:confused:

[rebate queen]

OK --I guess we can't. One part says "keep all information gathered on your assignments confidential"--which we are ok on. The other part says"you agree not to disclose the names of Shop'N Chek's clients, the location of the assignments, or any information gathered during an assignment to anyone other than representatives of Shop'N Chek"

[mom363546]

does your cell phone have a stopwatch?? If so that works great because it looks like your messing with your phone when you hit the start time and stop time.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Dawn, thanks for checking; I appreciate it!

Deb, wonderful idea! I will have to see if mine does. If it does, I have no idea how to use it, but I bet I can figure it out! LOL!

[wendav13]

Holy smokes - I think they want my first born on that application!!!!

[bvanpeltsw]

I don't think it matters who you talk to the shops. No one is going to know it is me anyways.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Since they don't want us to though, I won't!

My first CPI and receipt are showing up as verified, so I'm assuming that means it's been accepted. Whew! I was really worried I was going to do something wrong. Now, I can start looking for my next shop!

bvanpeltsw, did you do the shop you mentioned on this thread? Was it fun? Did you have to go alone? I had to go alone on mine.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Dawn, how'd your shop go?

My family bought me a digital watch today that comes with a stopwatch. It's really neat! Now, if only some more shops would come my way!

[rebate queen]

Dawn, how'd your shop go?

My family bought me a digital watch today that comes with a stopwatch. It's really neat! Now, if only some more shops would come my way!

Sorry so long to respond-yeah, timing discreetly is not easy. I did find that the stopwatch on my cell phone has a "lap" option though. So instead of stopping and starting it I can just press lap and it records the time but keeps going. Does that make sense??
I bet the watch is cool. I just never wear them anymore. For one thing I seem to break them quickly. I have a whole bag of broken watches:( . The other thing is I have to take it off every time I do a massage. I just don't wear much jewelry on my hands anymore.
I've gotten a lot of shops--just make sure to check the website everyday. They don't let you know when they've added one to your list. How have you done?? Reporting is a pain and so time consuming. I wish you could just call and give a verbal report- it wouldn't even have to be to a person. It would be much easier and I think they would get more info that way!!

[lynn780]

I'm new the forum and want to say that all of you have some real helpful information. Thanks for sharing. In regards to secret shoppers, it is something I've always wanted to do. But do you have do the companies give you a certain time frame that you have to do the job or certain days or hours of the week. I work another job and was wondering how I could fit it in.
Thanks.:)

[rebate queen]

I'm new the forum and want to say that all of you have some real helpful information. Thanks for sharing. In regards to secret shoppers, it is something I've always wanted to do. But do you have do the companies give you a certain time frame that you have to do the job or certain days or hours of the week. I work another job and was wondering how I could fit it in.
Thanks.:)

I can only tell you about two of the companies--Shop'N Chek and Maritz. As far as the scheduling with these two companies, you only accept assignments on the dates and times that you can do. They do not frown upon you declining offers, they only frown upon you accepting them and then not doing them.
Shop'N Chek will list potential assignments with dates and times so you know exactly what you are getting.
I haven't done as many with Maritz but so far it seems like you have an assigned amount of time and you don't have to tell them exactly what day you are doing it on as long as you are done by the deadline. I had 3 weeks to do my last assignment with them and I chose only 2 locations.
Hope this helps!:)

[lynn780]

yes it does. Thanks. If I have a choice it makes it easier to do. My work schedule varies so I could probably fit it in. What I am assuming about this type of work is that you go in like a regular customer and shop & buy and basically note what and how you are helped, etc. The company you work for tells you how much you can spend and they reimburse you for that plus pay you to do the job. Am I correct in my thinking on this?:)

[rebate queen]

yes it does. Thanks. If I have a choice it makes it easier to do. My work schedule varies so I could probably fit it in. What I am assuming about this type of work is that you go in like a regular customer and shop & buy and basically note what and how you are helped, etc. The company you work for tells you how much you can spend and they reimburse you for that plus pay you to do the job. Am I correct in my thinking on this?:)

Yes--basically that is how it works--sometimes it is a shop that doesn't require a purchase-sometimes they tell you exactly what to purchase, sometimes you purchase what you want up to a certain dollar limit, sometimes the shop is just a phone call.
One thing that I will warn you about-with Maritz you reveal yourself as the secret shopper and talk to the manager at the end. At least that is how all of mine have been so far...With Shop'N Chek you remain secret. I have also had a lot of reporting/paperwork with Shop'N Chek, very time consuming.

[mom363546]

I have good luck with Maritz.We don't have a lot of shops to do in my area but we are a smaller community.I can tell you the Maritz on line survey company is a sister company to the maritz facility in my town and they employ approx 300 employees and are are considered one of the better paying jobs in this area.

[lynn780]

Okay, so with Maritz when you get done with whatever they have you do, you identify yourself to the manager and what? Tell them what you found or just leave it at that you were a secret shopper. Is there a lot of paperwork with Maritz? Also, can you have someone with you or is this something you do on your own. I know when you have to identify yourself it would be on your own, but just the general shopping can someone be with you? Also, I don't know if I can ask, but who pays better Maritz or ShopnChek? All of you have been so helpful with this--I really appreciate it.

[mom363546]

I do what ever my paper work tells me. sometime it says you have to be alone and it tells me wether i'm suppose to let them know who I am.

[lynn780]

I forgot a question I wanted to ask (Sorry for so many questions--I just like to know up front what to expect and I am a big question asker!!!lol:D Anyway, do you have to have a credit card to make purchases or can you pay cash, just as long as you have your receipts?? Also, from what I have read on this forum, you do not have to give out bank information if you get a check from them monthly, right? Thanks again.

[rebate queen]

Most of the time I have had to be alone-one time I got to take up to 3 people with me to eat in a restaurant, but that was my pay. So far, when I have had to reveal myself as the secret shopper, I had to talk to the managers about everything I found and give them a copy of the report. I do not think that they want you to use a credit card for your shops, that would give your name away. So far, I feel the 2 companies are about equal in pay. I get more shops with Shop'N Chek, but I've had less paperwork with Maritz. I am still pretty new at this too so anyone else out there can chime in.
Also, you do not have to give them banking info but you will get paid faster if you do. They do require your SS# and your first born-just kiddin'-Applying with Shop'N Chek was very lengthy so be prepared. I wasn't and I had to stop in the middle of a timed test when a client came to the door!

[lynn780]

Thanks for all your help. I never knew how secret shoppers worked. So this gives me a basic idea. Thanks again.:) :)

[rebate queen]

You're welcome--good luck--feel free to ask more questions if you want--and check back here later--other people will probably post too:)

[TAMMY293115]

REBATE QUEEN........

:confused: .I WAS WONDERING IF YOU COULD HELP ME OUT WITH A SMALL PROBLEM.........I SEE THAT YOU ARE A SHOPPER WITH SHOP N' CHEK.... I HAVE BEEN MAILING IN MY RECEIPTS AND CPI AND THEY HAVE NOW ASKED US ALL TO SCAN OR FAX THEM AND I AM HAVING A PROBLEM....WHEN I SCAN THEM AND GO TO SEND IT I GET A MESSAGE THAT I HAVE TO UPLOAD A GPI FILE. I SCAN THEM AND SAVE THEM INTO A FILE BUT I GET THE SAME MESSAGE EVERYTIME. I AM WHAT YOU CALL A BIG DUMMY:rolleyes: ON THE COMPUTER AND HAVE NO IDEA WHAT I AM DOING WRONG AND WAS WONDERING IF YOU COULD GIVE ME A FEW POINTERS...IF SO COULD YOU PLEASE SEND ME A PRIVATE MESSAGE EXPLAINING HOW........THANKS A BUNCH....

[JDVIC]

I noticed that 2 of my favorite sites were mentioned already, so I'll just say why I like them so much:
* Shop'n Chek, Inc. (http://www.shopnchekshopper.com/): 1st choice! Easy to use, web based search interface, email notification option, DIRECT DEPOSIT, a variety of shops, plus you can self-assign and reschedule online if something comes up.
* Maritz Research Inc. (http://www.virtuoso.maritzresearch.com/default.asp): A wide variety of assignments that are easy to search through online, but they still snail mail checks and you have to request assignments and wait to be approved. This can make planning ahead harder. Otherwise, very friendly and helpful people.
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Then here is a list of sites you might try. If I've used them before I put a * by them. Some might charge a registration fee. In general, you shouldn't HAVE to pay to shop for a company, but some sites might charge to give you access to the most wanted assignments. At first, you might consider registering with a directory to get some exposure with different Mystery Shopping companies looking for shoppers in your area:
ShadowShopper LLC (http://www.shadowshopper.com/) - Excellent FAQ's and articles in their Shopper University. I'd sign up for at least the free Bronze level just to read these sections. You also may get emails from people looking for shoppers in your area. You can pay for higher levels and see better shops, like the cruise line one!
Lila's Leads (http://www.lilasleads.com/index.asp)
Selectashopper.com (http://selectashopper.com/) - National Mystery Shopper Directory, req. a fee
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Mystery Shopping Companies:
A Closer Look (ACL) (http://www.a-closer-look.com/)
A Top Shop, LLC (https://wx8.registeredsite.com/user853364/index.html)
*ATH POWER CONSULTING CORPORATION (http://www.athpoweronline.com/) - banks
CERTIFIED MARKETING SERVICES, INC. (http://www.certifiedfieldassociate.com/) - movie theaters & others
*Check Mark, Inc. (https://www.checkmarkinc.com/newhome/index-flash.html)
Corporate Research International (http://www.mysteryshops.com/) - HUGE selection, but do require tests
Ellis, Partners in Mystery Shopping, EPMS (http://www.epmsonline.com/Become_Shopper.html) - apartments
GAPbuster Worldwide (https://www.gapbuster.com/) - I don't like that you have to take a lot of tests before you can even review most assignments.
Mars Research (http://www.marsresearch.com/Employment.asp)
Marketing Endeavors (http://www.meshoppers.com/default.php)
*Nsite Inc. (http://www.nsiteinc.com/index.cfm) - No self-assignments or search feature, they email you available jobs. Did a restaurant shop for them, they covered all expenses, but there is no additional fee paid. Somewhat vague on expectations.
QualityShopper.org (http://www.qualityshopper.org/)
Quest for Best Mystery Shoppers (http://www.questforbest.com/shoppers.htm)
Satisfaction Services, Inc. (http://www.satisfactionservicesinc.com/index2.html)
*Second-To-None (http://www.second-to-none.com/) - I've done a deli shop for them, pay is average
*Service Alliance, Inc. (http://www.serviceallianceinc.com/index.shtml) - I've done a couple furniture store shops for them. VERY helpful to new shoppers. Honest.
ShoppingJobsHere.com (http://www.shoppingjobshere.com/)
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I hope this helps you. Over the years, I have enjoyed shopping while my child was in school and getting paid something in return. Good Luck!

[jagsmom]

Does anyone know of any legitimate work from home companies?

[mkrebecca]

I know some of the direct selling companies are great, if you can do something like that, I sell Mary Kay products and I love it!!!!

[mom2fussbudgets]

I know some of the direct selling companies are great, if you can do something like that, I sell Mary Kay products and I love it!!!!

I feel like you have to have a certain personality to do this job, and I don't have it! I admire you.

jagsmom, I've been doing mystery shopping through Shop 'N Check and I love it! If you like to shop, then this is the job for you!

[mkrebecca]

I feel like you have to have a certain personality to do this job, and I don't have it! I admire you.

jagsmom, I've been doing mystery shopping through Shop 'N Check and I love it! If you like to shop, then this is the job for you!

At first I was not so sure about it, but I have been doing it for 7 years now, I just love how I can make women look good and feel good about themselves. It is the best thing I have done for my family!! I admire the founder Mary Kay Ash! Thanks for the compliment.

[elliedoom]

REBATE QUEEN........

:confused: .I WAS WONDERING IF YOU COULD HELP ME OUT WITH A SMALL PROBLEM.........I SEE THAT YOU ARE A SHOPPER WITH SHOP N' CHEK.... I HAVE BEEN MAILING IN MY RECEIPTS AND CPI AND THEY HAVE NOW ASKED US ALL TO SCAN OR FAX THEM AND I AM HAVING A PROBLEM....WHEN I SCAN THEM AND GO TO SEND IT I GET A MESSAGE THAT I HAVE TO UPLOAD A GPI FILE. I SCAN THEM AND SAVE THEM INTO A FILE BUT I GET THE SAME MESSAGE EVERYTIME. I AM WHAT YOU CALL A BIG DUMMY:rolleyes: ON THE COMPUTER AND HAVE NO IDEA WHAT I AM DOING WRONG AND WAS WONDERING IF YOU COULD GIVE ME A FEW POINTERS...IF SO COULD YOU PLEASE SEND ME A PRIVATE MESSAGE EXPLAINING HOW........THANKS A BUNCH....

Tammy, there is no such thing as a GPI file. Do you mean JPG?

[rebate queen]

Tammy, there is no such thing as a GPI file. Do you mean JPG?

She got this taken care of a long time ago, back in August, actually the day after she posted it--we just pmed instead of posting. Thanks for trying to help though!:)

[bugspost]

Hi all, Love the forum.........and just want you to know that I have been a mystery shopper for over three years. There are lots of reputable MS companies. There are also mystery shop forums. A really good one is
www.msfreedom.org This forum is maintained BY shoppers FOR shoppers. It is not ran by a MS company. There is a lot of newbies there and all questions are answered. We have a list of over 450 ms companies too!! So if you are really interested in pursuing mystery shopping........join our forum.
There is another site that is good to read (not a forum) it has tips on writing reports, etc. It is http://mysteryshoppercentral.homestead.com/train.html

Also, one of our seasoned shoppers has a site to help new shoppers:
http://www.mysteryshopsmart.com/

So check it out. :)

Linda

[catsbeforme]

Does any one no any legit data processing companies etc.where i could work from home personal experiences with companies would be great .Thanks:)

[cliffwalker]

Hi All
Just wondering. Is a secret shopper something that is done as a hobbie? Or can it be done as a profitable (homebased) job?
I'd love to work from home and pick my own hours etc...
Thank you

[mom2fussbudgets]

I haven't been able to make enough money so far to live on. It all depends on what shops they offer you. In September, I made $115, and I've made about that much this month as well. I'm only signed up with one organization though, and I'll only accept shops that are fairly close to me. It's good for a little extra spending money, but not much else. I may join another mystery shopper organization.

[bugspost]

I have been doing it over 3 years. I only do it parttime but there are a lot of full time shoppers. I make about $250-$300 a month in money and about the same in reimbursements for groceries, restaurants, gas, etc. :)

[cliffwalker]

Thank You very much for the replies. Appreciate it very much. Does sound like it could be fun/interesting.

[wbarker]

I just completed my first shop for ****** It was a shop for $15. Usually I'm only offered gas stations, so I was excited about this one! I actually REALLY enjoyed doing it!

[bvanpeltsw]

I do it for an extra form of income.

It is so hit and miss though. Some months I make $200 and others I make $40. It just depends on what is needed.

[bugspost]

I just completed my first shop for ********** It was an [furniture store] shop for $15. Usually I'm only offered gas stations, so I was excited about this one! I actually REALLY enjoyed doing it!


Just a heads up...edit your post because you are....never to mention the MS company and client name together since the ICA(independent contractor agreement) you agree to with the MS company prohibits this. So you can say something like I did a furniture store shop for (name of ms company) or you could say I did a (name of client) shop today w/out naming the ms company at all. (so either name the ms company or the client(not both)) Just don't want you to get banned from an MS company if they see that you posted this....:) Cool that you enjoyed the shop and that MS company is a good one.......their gas station shops rock!! :cool:

I took out the MS name for you........
cpogie

[wbarker]

Just a heads up...edit your post because you are....never to mention the MS company and client name together since the ICA(independent contractor agreement) you agree to with the MS company prohibits this. So you can say something like I did a furniture store shop for (name of ms company) or you could say I did a (name of client) shop today w/out naming the ms company at all. (so either name the ms company or the client(not both)) Just don't want you to get banned from an MS company if they see that you posted this....:) Cool that you enjoyed the shop and that MS company is a good one.......their gas station shops rock!! :cool:

I took out the MS name for you........
cpogie

Thanks to both of you for watching out for me!!

I haven't tried their gas shops yet - I was worried it would take an hour or more . . . . :)

[bugspost]

Oh no............doesn't take any time at all for the gas shops.
Pump gas.........clean your windshield........run in store...pick up what you want (which is candy bars for my hubby usually).......go to restroom......interact w/attendant........check the air and water when you leave.............takes 20 minutes.........max..........30 maybe the first time and the audit form..............well, it takes about 10 minutes to input.....maybe 20 the first time. I have done sooooo many of these and one of my fav shops cuz I get gas and hubby gets candy........HA HA HA :D

[bvanpeltsw]

I do secret shops and I am wondering if they amount of shops INCREASES or DECREASES during the holidays?

Anyone have any idea?

Thanks!

[Scharoun]

there is a site called secret shoppers of america that seems to have good information. However, with that being said be very careful. 90% of the sites that say they are for secret shoppers are scams.

[gatito]

I Finally Decided To Join Shopncheck And They Picked Me !!!

[bvanpeltsw]

I Finally Decided To Join Shopncheck And They Picked Me !!!

That is a good one! I've made good money from them:D

[gatito]

That is a good one! I've made good money from them:D

THANKS FOR LETTING ME KNOW !! I WAS LIKE WTF ? LOL

[bvanpeltsw]

THANKS FOR LETTING ME KNOW !! I WAS LIKE WTF ? LOL

Now you know!;)

[mom2fussbudgets]

I haven't been getting many shops lately and I am so frustrated! Sure could use some Christmas money!

[mood4amelody]

I haven't been getting many shops lately and I am so frustrated! Sure could use some Christmas money!

Would you actually get it before Christmas at this late date? I just started doing shops (seems I'm the only person in this area.... they called me to register!). My first was on the 9th, and so far I've done 6 and have 1 to do tomorrow. I also have 4 or 5 lined up. There are a couple available that I'm not taking because it would cost more in gas than the shop pays to do.

[mom2fussbudgets]

A member asked for info, so I am bumping this up!

[rwillis]

I used Volition.com to find secret shopping companies. It's GREAT. They are all legitimate. The ones I like doing the most are for Harris Teeter and Lowes foods because I actually shop there. I used to do shops for Back Yard burgers too, and one for McDonalds. The only thing about McD's shops is that they are unbelievably strict about what you will or will not get remibursed for, down to the SECOND. And believe me, it is not easy not being noticed when you are checking your watch every 5 seconds.

I quit doing it because I was moving and never got back into it after I settled in. I also did a couple of shops for Coach- they don't really reimburse for those, but they will pay you to go, and you also have the option of keeping the receipt and returning the item.

You have the option of getting "silver" and "gold" certified through a mystery shopping organization (you can find the info on volition.com). I got silver certified through an online tutorial but the gold one is an actual day long seminar. The best shops are the ones that want you to be gold certified- hotel stays where they reimburse you for your stay, room service, and then pay you on top of that.

[ept_0202]

You have the option of getting "silver" and "gold" certified through a mystery shopping organization (you can find the info on volition.com). I got silver certified through an online tutorial but the gold one is an actual day long seminar. The best shops are the ones that want you to be gold certified- hotel stays where they reimburse you for your stay, room service, and then pay you on top of that.

Where can I find the certification info on volition's website. I looked, but due to a dork moment i having, I was unable to locate. Thanks

[bugspost]

It is on the MSPA site......... that is who does the certification.

http://www.mysteryshop.org/shoppers/certification.php

I am silver certified..........some ms companies recognize the certification and others don't give a hoot about it.

It is only $15 and easy and online and tax deductible.

One thing I might add, I have been doing this going on 4 years.........there are many shop opportunities w/out having to go GOLD or even Silver.

I have done many fine dining and hotel shops...........even before I was SILVER...........I imagine I have received a few more job offers because of SIlver and perhaps, with some companies I am missing out on shops because I am not Gold BUT there are over 400 ms companies. I am signed w/170.......although I only do regular work for about 20. I am busy enough as I only do it parttime...........

MS companies are looking for reliable, detail oriented shoppers that turn in quality reports in a timely manner. Your job skills will always be judged more than just certification. With some companies, the combination of certification and good job skills will benefit you. Just having certification will not land you the great jobs............and as I mentioned before, some companies don't even recognize the MSPA certification program.

Just my two cents on it............:)

[ept_0202]

thanks for that info. i am not sure if i want to do the certification, but i wanted to definitely research it. I can only do the secret shops one or two days a week since I do have a full time job, so unsure if the cert would be worth it, but 15 bucks isn't too bad....
thanks again

[mom2fussbudgets]

The only thing about McD's shops is that they are unbelievably strict about what you will or will not get remibursed for, down to the SECOND. And believe me, it is not easy not being noticed when you are checking your watch every 5 seconds.



I love doing the McDonald's shops! I've done it so many times, I have it down to a fine art. It does take practice! :)

My hardest shop so far was for The Outback. It took me four hours to write my report!

[bugspost]

I did the Outback and did not like the bar shop part as I sat at the bar and hubby stood beside me. The Outback here is always busy.........

anyhow, the report did take about 2 hours to complete but I expected that.
I have done other fine dining shops.............that have taken 3 hours......
would have liked a fee for the report but guess I did WORK FOR FOOD,,,,in a sense.

I agree about MCD shops...........done so many......they are very easy now.
It is the same w/ Arbys,gas station and grocery shops. After you do so many, they get easier. :)

This last year I have been doing lots of FF mall shops for Auntie Annes Pretzels, Orange Julius, Dairy Queen,Cinnabon. I now have them down to a fine art.:)
I have also done tons of Starbucks. One weekend, I did ten of them.........it was just too many.........now, I limit to a couple in one day.........hubby and I can only drink so many mochas & lattes!:cool:

[ept_0202]

i have my first McD's shop this weekend. if you guys have any pointers to make it easier, thanks!!!!

[rebate queen]

i have my first McD's shop this weekend. if you guys have any pointers to make it easier, thanks!!!!

They want so much info, it can seem difficult at first. Just read over your info a lot. It will seem like you are spending too much time to prepare for one shop, but you will probably get many of these. They do get easier. I take a paper in with me and act like I'm doing the crossword puzzle. I fill in the squares with different things/names that I need to remember as soon as I sit down with my food. It has worked pretty well for me. I've done about 30 of these, and it seems to get easier every time!!

[bugspost]

I use my cell phone for the timing..........the stopwatch feature.........does not look weird since so many people text nowadays.........also, works great for the DT.
Although, it seems like a lot of observations.........many are done within seconds. As far as description of employees, inside,,,,,,,,easy enough as you sit down and can jot down notes...........at DT........look ahead at the employee to remember description..........also, stay back just a little bit or pull forward a bit depending on the location of their nametag so they have to turn toward you so you can get a good look at nametag.

Enjoy.........they get easier the more you do..........the first one is the toughest!! :)

[ept_0202]

thanks for the tips.....

[kuanyin1]

Does anybody have any information on Shadow Shopper, please? Thanks much!

Shadow Shopper is not a mystery shopping company. They are a mystery shopping matching company. They don't hire shoppers, their members (mystery shopping companies, merchandising companies, etc.) do. They send us the job opportunities and the information about how to apply for and win the assignments. ShadowShopper exclusively offers mystery shopping cruise jobs to all of our Gold and Lifetime members. Several major luxury cruise lines are introducing mystery shopping with ShadowShopper as a way to help them evaluate and improve their customers' experience onboard.

I am a silver member with them and am signed up with several different companies through Shadow Shopper. I'm currently working on an online shop with one of the companies evaluating an e-mail fax service; and I'm waiting to hear about a couple of other jobs.

[kuanyin1]

I lucked into a plum assignment today.

There was a posting @ shadow shopper for an ongoing weekly assignment at a store collecting cigarette inventory information. The assignment involves a weekly store visit involving price checking, inventory paperwork completion (basic math, price recording, invoice collection).This job pays $40 per week. Well, I called the 800 number on the assignment and spoke to the guy doing the hiring apparently they had just posted the job 15 minutes before I called; he said I was the first one to call and after hearing that I work as an inventory auditor he said that I was the only one they needed to talk to and gave me the job. :D

[momsangel]

congrats!!thats really cool:)

[catmom50]

They want so much info, it can seem difficult at first. Just read over your info a lot. It will seem like you are spending too much time to prepare for one shop, but you will probably get many of these. They do get easier. I take a paper in with me and act like I'm doing the crossword puzzle. I fill in the squares with different things/names that I need to remember as soon as I sit down with my food. It has worked pretty well for me. I've done about 30 of these, and it seems to get easier every time!!

I love your idea of the paper. I am just starting out being a MS, and have 3 lined up-Arby's, Claire's and our local post office.

[rebate queen]

I love your idea of the paper. I am just starting out being a MS, and have 3 lined up-Arby's, Claire's and our local post office.
Great! Hope you do well with them! Something else I do if I'm in a place where writing anything would look suspicious-use my cell phone to call my home phone and leave myself a voicemail, or text message a number I know won't go through so it will be saved to my sent messages. I have also put a small tape recorder in my purse.;)

[bvanpeltsw]

I have not logged into my Shop N Chek account in awhile and now I see they are no longer called that.

What happened? Anyone stay with the company when it merged with Market Force?

[kuanyin1]

I have not logged into my Shop N Chek account in awhile and now I see they are no longer called that.

What happened? Anyone stay with the company when it merged with Market Force?

Market Force is the parent company that owns Speedmark, SG Marketing and Shop n Chek; I've done several shops since the changes.

[mand0114]

Sights on Service
Shorter shops, tend to have more in smaller towns and not much in my area so I did very few with them but they have more offers than Jancyn. I think this is the company that offers the mail order shops.
www.secretshopper.com[/QUOTE]


I use this one (secretshopper.com). It is valid - it doesn't pay much, but it's a lot of places that i go anyways, so it's no hassle. they're pretty good!

[jmedina44]

I applied with Maritz a couple of days ago, and got accepted yesterday and filled out all the paperwork last night. To day I went ont he site and looked at the assignments in my area (there weren't alot) and applied and already got a phone call to set up my first shop :) , Woohoo, they are fast!

[mncruise]

I have done secretshopper.com for about a year. They have a restaurant near my home where we eat a lot. I even sent an email to them one time about some changes at the restaurant that were positive and they sent back a thank you. Usually the meal is paid except for the tip.
On a cruise I went to a seminar and the speaker did secret shopping all the time. She said never pay to do it, you can give your ss# and volition.com was a good site to find your companies.
I pass on a lot of the shopping if it is not close to my home or takes too much time.
I just did one on tea tasting and I received 3 boxes of greeen tea from Celestial, Bigelow and Lipton. Only problem, they did not send me info where to send my report. Hope I am not off their list.
Thanks for all the info. I will also check my cell phone to time the seconds. That is a hard thing to do and not look like you are doing it. I have taken the local grocery ad into the restaurant and write notes that look like a grocery list.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Bumpety, bump, bump, bump!

[sramlgarcia]

I applied Saturday night to Jancyn. Got my acceptance email Sunday morning and my first shop Sunday afternoon! I will be shopping Buffalo Wild Wings:D

[sramlgarcia]

I applied and was accepted to Secret Shopper tonight. Not much in my area though.:)

[bugspost]

I have been shopping for almost 5 years. I am w/170 companies but regularly shops for about 20.
It is fun and gets me free groceries, gas and hubby and I go to restaurants.
Have done some nice hotel shops to. Anyone needing help or advice...feel free to ask.

Also, I am a moderator at www.msfreedom.org which is a forum for mystery shoppers. It is maintained BY shopper FOR shoppers so really has the shopper's best interest.

Enjoy your wing shop.........should be fun!! Jancyn is a good company. :)

[sramlgarcia]

Thanks, some of the applications are quite thorough. Especially since we are independent contractors. Which companies, per your experience, give the best shops?

[bugspost]

Although Trendsource does not pay high.....I do my grocery w/them and they are reliable on pay plus they pay on the 5th and 20th like clockwork. If you do a shop on the 4th you get paid the next day.

I do the pizza shops for Corporate Research only because they bonus so well here........anywhere from $16-$21 plus reimburse and the pizza is delivered. You do have to take pics though. I believe NSS still does these pizza shops too.

Gas shops used to do w/GFK but they lost the client to Maritz but okay since it is virtually the same shop and pay.

I like Reality Check for their ff mall shops which include pretzels and orangey drinks. Sinclair also does the same pretzel shops.

Do many coffee shops for Second to None which usually coincide w/my grocery shops since the coffee shops are inside the grocery stores.

Restaurant shops I do for Bestmark, Tell US about US, JC & Associates, Concerto, Mercantile and Service Check.

SQM and Dataquest have some nice hotel shops. Bestmark actually started doing some down the Oregon Coast recently. Haven't nabbed one yet. Might try for one this summer.

Love Shoppers Critique......great company.......casual and fine dining shops plus candy shop at mall.

The first company I signed with was Service Intelligence and still do quite a variety of shops for them. Recently, they had a late nite convenience store shop which you just had to see if they were open(no purchase required). Good pay at $20.

I really try to bundle shops as I don't like to do a lone one so if I have a restaurant shop I try to pick up a gas station on the way or a grocery on the way home.

I work full time at post office so msing is parttime but I will do some on way home from work too. It is fun and I enjoy the perks of free stuff.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Linda, thanks so much for the tips. Since hubby doesn't have a job right now, I've been getting into this more and more. I'm signed up with four companies right now, and plan to sign up with more.

[bugspost]

sign up for lots and lots........I am with 170......here are a few:

A good site to help ya with writing reports for mystery shopping is http://mysteryshoppercentral.homestead.com/train.html
If you haven't already, I suggest you join www.msfreedom.org
I only make about $350-$400 a month in actual cash but about the same in reimbursements.
Here is a list of good companies that I like:
http://www.tellusaboutus.com/ Tell US About Us
http://athpower.com/employment/ ATH
https://www.experienceexchange.com/ SERVICE INTELLIGENCE
http://www.second-to-none.com/ SECOND TO NONE
http://www.bestmark.com/ BESTMARK
http://www.trendsource.com/ TRENDSOURCE
http://www.cybershoppersonline.com GFK
http://www.rcmysteryshopper.com/ REALITY CHECK
http://www.mysteryshops.com/ CORPORATE RESEARCH

Also, there is merchandising which is setting up displays at stores.....or doing recall item pickups.........some really like this as a way to add income.

RQA http://www.rqa-inc.com/
NCIM Merchandising http://www.ncim.com/
LAWRENCE MERCHANDISING http://www.lmsvc.com/
PREMIUM RETAIL http://www.premiumretail.com/index2.html
NARMS http://www.narms.com/
WOLFE http://www.wolferetail.com/

[mom2fussbudgets]

Thank you! Big hugs!

[SassyJan]

sign up for lots and lots........I am with 170......here are a few:

A good site to help ya with writing reports for mystery shopping is http://mysteryshoppercentral.homestead.com/train.html
If you haven't already, I suggest you join www.msfreedom.org
I only make about $350-$400 a month in actual cash but about the same in reimbursements.
Here is a list of good companies that I like:
http://www.tellusaboutus.com/ Tell US About Us
http://athpower.com/employment/ ATH
https://www.experienceexchange.com/ SERVICE INTELLIGENCE
http://www.second-to-none.com/ SECOND TO NONE
http://www.bestmark.com/ BESTMARK
http://www.trendsource.com/ TRENDSOURCE
http://www.cybershoppersonline.com GFK
http://www.rcmysteryshopper.com/ REALITY CHECK
http://www.mysteryshops.com/ CORPORATE RESEARCH

Also, there is merchandising which is setting up displays at stores.....or doing recall item pickups.........some really like this as a way to add income.

RQA http://www.rqa-inc.com/
NCIM Merchandising http://www.ncim.com/
LAWRENCE MERCHANDISING http://www.lmsvc.com/
PREMIUM RETAIL http://www.premiumretail.com/index2.html
NARMS http://www.narms.com/
WOLFE http://www.wolferetail.com/


Thank you so much for your time and info. I think I may try some of these. I have done some mystery shopping in the past, but haven't thought about it until now. Thanks so much!!!

[purplebutterflies]

I did my first mystery shop (it was great)
Does any know for Martiz how long is it before you get paid?

[bugspost]

They pay twice a month, on the 15th and end of month. But, it depends on when your shop gets approved as to which pay schedule it falls into. In any case, they do pay rather quickly for most shops.
So if you just did the shop.......depending if they approve it quick enough...you will either get paid 4/30 or 5/15.

[mom2fussbudgets]

Linda, I wanted to take the time to thank you again. I'm signed up with about 15 companies now, and I am doing lots of juggling! But, it is really starting to pay off. I am blown away by how much some of these shops pay. Today, I am doing one that will take me about 15 minutes, and I am going to get paid $28 for it! All told, today, I have three shops, and I am going to make a total of $58. Since I have been a stay-at-home mom for so long, I don't think I could make as much at a regular job working for 8 hours! Last week, I got paid $17.50 to watch movie trailers, and two weeks ago, I got a job where I had to go to a doctor's office and take pictures of an informational display. Took me all of five minutes, and I made $20. What I really love about this is the freedom I still have. I also love the fact that I don't have to put up with co-workers or answer to a boss.

Tomorrow, I have a shop at a candy store. And I'm getting paid for this, LOL!

[bugspost]

so glad you are getting into this.........it is wonderful to pick and choose what you want to do. Although, I only do it part time..........I really enjoy it and when I retire next year, I will do more hotel shops.
Love the candy store shop.........have done it many times.
I tend to like the shops that don't take a lot of time especially the reports.
Have you checked out the pizza delivery shops for Corporate Research?
They bonus nicely at end of month. Last month, I did two that paid total of $40 in fees plus cost of both pizzas and tips for driver. they usually start at $6 fee but go up if shoppers just wait................sometimes, if they can't fill certain locations........they even allow you to do carry out at those locations.

I also love the grocery shops for Trendsource as they are easy........pay not much.........but treat it like a big ole coupon for groceries since I shop at those grocery stores anyway.

Happy shopping and if you ever need any help,,,,,,,just holler!!

[purplebutterflies]

Thanks everyone for all the info on mystery shopping. There are so many scams out there, that I was fearful in the past. I signed up for several of the recommended sites and LOVE it. Thanks a ton.:)

[bugspost]

Definitely lots of scams out there right now...........watch out for companies that want you to check out web sites and sign up for trial offers.........one shopper told me they wanted her to go to 25 sites.....sign up for trial offers...
and they would pay $20......crazy as you have to then cancel those 25 sign ups and sometimes that is hard to do in addition to giving your cc # to 25 companies.

so all beward of any scams..........some of them even use legitimate ms company names....

The old saying "If it sounds too good to be true, it is!"
Mystery shopping generally pays $10-$15 for jobs performed. Of course there are some that are less and some that are more. Most jobs work out to less than or about minimum wage by the time you take into account studying what you are supposed to do, go do it and fill out the report. Most companies pay you 4-6 weeks after you perform the job. Mystery shops YOU have to request or self assign, they do not ever just send you a check and tell you to go do them.

Do not be lured into signing up for lots of 'special offers' in order to get mystery shops for '$500 gift cards' , 'free laptops' or even $$$. They are just scams to get them referral fees for sending potential customers.

Do not ever pay to shop. There are many 'services' out there that will supposedly send you shops and the vast majority of them are sending lists of companies to sign up with or lists of available jobs--all of which are free here or elsewhere. Of the 600+ mystery shop companies.....only about 200 are legit so remember that.

Some outfits now are offering to 'train' you for a fee. Training for jobs to be performed is available with many of the companies you would sign up with for free. No training overrides the specific instructions of the job you are to perform that are provided by the company from whom you accepted a job.

If they are charging a fee, turn away and run fast. Everybody is trying to make a buck these days and charging shoppers to be able to shop or for 'training' or 'leads' which is ludicrous. All the info you need to become a shopper and get shops is available FREE on the internet..........just have to know where to go.

A lot of these scammers are using legit MS company names for their scams.
SNOPES report:
http://www.snopes.com/fraud/employment/shopper.asp
Federal Trade Commission bulletin: good read http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre40.shtm

IF you receive checks/money orders please use the following resources for reporting the SCAM.

Notify:

National Consumers League/Alliance for Consumer Fraud Awareness: www.fakechecks.org


Internet Crime Complaint Center:

www.ic3.gov (if the offer is received by email or you are directed to a website)


Office of the Inspector General, U.S. Postal Service:

www.uspsoig.gov (if the offer is received by mail)


Office of the Comptroller of the Currency
http://www.occ.gov/customer.htm


Local Police


Federal Trade Commission:
www.ftc.gov


Federal Bureau of Investigation:

www.fbi.gov

[bugspost]

Premier shoppers is now a fee-free site which can show you jobs in your area w/reputable companies:

This is from Gary Cohn
President
PremierShoppers.com
888.777-1667

PremierShoppers.com http://www.premiershoppers.com/
is determined to be the go to site for mystery shoppers and recruiters. We are committed to being a dedicated advocate for this industry. Without diminishing any of the power, features, functionality, or customer service of our site and company, we did make some noise yesterday (April 2, 2009). On that day, we removed the barriers and roadblocks to this industry by eliminating our Membership Fee. Now shoppers can enjoy and utilize our site to its fullest:

* MatchQuest Technology - automatic notifications of shop assignments
* FREE Education and Training Webinars (including guest speakers from some of the most respected mystery shop companies in the country)
* 24/7 Customer Care (through a toll-free number, live chat, and email)
* Shopper and Job Search Functionality
* Shopping discounts and other money saving ideas
* And much much more now (and even more to come in the summer)

[notyard]

Definitely lots of scams out there right now...........watch out for companies that want you to check out web sites and sign up for trial offers.........one shopper told me they wanted her to go to 25 sites.....sign up for trial offers...
and they would pay $20......crazy as you have to then cancel those 25 sign ups and sometimes that is hard to do in addition to giving your cc # to 25 companies.

so all beward of any scams..........some of them even use legitimate ms company names....

The old saying "If it sounds too good to be true, it is!"
Mystery shopping generally pays $10-$15 for jobs performed. Of course there are some that are less and some that are more. Most jobs work out to less than or about minimum wage by the time you take into account studying what you are supposed to do, go do it and fill out the report. Most companies pay you 4-6 weeks after you perform the job. Mystery shops YOU have to request or self assign, they do not ever just send you a check and tell you to go do them.

Do not be lured into signing up for lots of 'special offers' in order to get mystery shops for '$500 gift cards' , 'free laptops' or even $$$. They are just scams to get them referral fees for sending potential customers.

Do not ever pay to shop. There are many 'services' out there that will supposedly send you shops and the vast majority of them are sending lists of companies to sign up with or lists of available jobs--all of which are free here or elsewhere. Of the 600+ mystery shop companies.....only about 200 are legit so remember that.

Some outfits now are offering to 'train' you for a fee. Training for jobs to be performed is available with many of the companies you would sign up with for free. No training overrides the specific instructions of the job you are to perform that are provided by the company from whom you accepted a job.

If they are charging a fee, turn away and run fast. Everybody is trying to make a buck these days and charging shoppers to be able to shop or for 'training' or 'leads' which is ludicrous. All the info you need to become a shopper and get shops is available FREE on the internet..........just have to know where to go.

A lot of these scammers are using legit MS company names for their scams.
SNOPES report:
http://www.snopes.com/fraud/employment/shopper.asp
Federal Trade Commission bulletin: good read http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre40.shtm

IF you receive checks/money orders please use the following resources for reporting the SCAM.

Notify:

National Consumers League/Alliance for Consumer Fraud Awareness: www.fakechecks.org (http://www.fakechecks.org)


Internet Crime Complaint Center:

www.ic3.gov (http://www.ic3.gov) (if the offer is received by email or you are directed to a website)


Office of the Inspector General, U.S. Postal Service:

www.uspsoig.gov (http://www.uspsoig.gov) (if the offer is received by mail)


Office of the Comptroller of the Currency
http://www.occ.gov/customer.htm


Local Police


Federal Trade Commission:
www.ftc.gov (http://www.ftc.gov)


Federal Bureau of Investigation:

www.fbi.gov (http://www.fbi.gov)

GREAT advice Linda! You're helping so many find the real mystery shopper organizations and steer clear of the fakes. The FTC does go after some of the scammers, but they can't catch all of them immediately. This is just an example of a FTC catch in December--many of the warning signs Linda mentioned are the very things these scammers were doing. In the bottom paragraph, the FTC also provides their toll free number (call 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357)) to lodge complaints and a link to their online "Complaint Assistant":

For Release: December 4, 2008


Marketers of Mystery Shopper Scam Settle with FTC; Agree to Pay $850,000

An operation that lured consumers with promises that they could earn big money as trained and certified “mystery shoppers ” has agreed to pay $850,000 to settle charges of deceptive marketing and contempt.
Mystery shoppers are paid to shop or dine out and then provide reports about the experience. In March 2007, the Federal Trade Commission charged eight defendants – the three companies Mystery Shop Link, LLC; Tangent Group, LLC; Harp Marketing Services, Inc.; and five individuals – with violating the FTC Act in connection with a nationwide mystery shopping employment scam.

According to the FTC, the defendants claimed that MysteryShopLink.com was hiring mystery shoppers in local areas nationwide. The company ran help wanted ads in newspapers, and on radio and TV. Consumers who responded to the ads reached the defendants’ telemarketers, who represented that MysteryShopLink.com had large numbers of available jobs and not enough shoppers to fill them. In exchange for a $99 fee, consumers were promised enough work to earn a steady full-time or part-time income as mystery shoppers. Instead, consumers received a worthless certification and access to postings for mystery shopping jobs controlled by other companies. Consumers had to apply for these mostly low-paying jobs, and had no advantage over anyone else who found the postings elsewhere on the Internet for free. Most consumers got no jobs and earned no money.

The FTC also charged five of the eight defendants – Mystery Shop Link, LLC, Tangent Group, LLC, and Robin Larry Murphy, Andrew Holman, and Kenneth Johnson – with contempt. The contempt charge alleged that Murphy violated the terms of a consent judgment in a prior telemarketing fraud case involving false promises of government jobs. The 1997 consent judgment barred Murphy from making material misrepresentations of fact while telemarketing, and required him to post a $100,000 bond. In addition to seeking contempt sanctions against Murphy, the FTC also alleged that co-defendants Mystery Shop Link, LLC, Tangent Group, LLC, Andrew Holman, and Kenneth Johnson were in contempt of the previous order because they all participated in running MysteryShopLink.com despite knowing about the prior consent judgment against Murphy.

The settlements announced today were reached with two separate groups of defendants. The first includes defendants Mystery Shop Link, LLC, Tangent Group, LLC, and their principals, Robin Larry Murphy, Andrew Holman, and Kenneth Johnson. This settlement resolves both the new case filed in 2007 and the contempt action. Under the settlement, the FTC will collect the proceeds of Murphy’s $100,000 bond. The settlement also includes a $17.8 million judgment, which is suspended based on the defendants’ inability to pay. The full judgment will be imposed if the defendants are found to have misrepresented their financial condition. This settlement prohibits all the defendants from making misrepresentations in the future. As a repeat offender, Murphy is permanently banned from telemarketing, except for non-deceptive sales to businesses of telecommunications equipment.

The second settlement includes defendants Harp Marketing Services, Inc., and its principals, Aiden Reddin and Marc Gurney. Harp Marketing was the primary outside telemarketing firm that handled consumer calls, and thus sales, for Mystery Shop Link. This settlement requires Harp and its owners to pay $750,000 in redress and prohibits them from making misrepresentations in the future. The Harp settlement also includes a suspended judgment of $6.8 million, the total amount of Mystery Shop Link sales made by Harp’s telemarketers. The full amount of this judgment will be imposed if the defendants are found to have misrepresented their financial condition.

Both settlements prohibit the defendants from collecting payments from Mystery Shop Link customers, and from transferring or benefitting from information about those customers. Both also contain record-keeping and reporting provisions to assist the FTC in monitoring the defendants’ compliance....SNIP...

The Federal Trade Commission works for consumers to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices and to provide information to help spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint in English or Spanish, visit the FTC’s online Complaint Assistant (https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/) or call 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357). The FTC enters complaints into Consumer Sentinel, a secure, online database available to more than 1,500 civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad. The FTC’s Web site provides free information on a variety of consumer topics (http://www.ftc.gov/consumer).


MEDIA CONTACT: Betsy Lordan
Office of Public Affairs
202-326-3707
STAFF CONTACT: Guy Ward or David O’Toole
FTC Midwest Region
312-960-5634 (Mystery Shop NR.wpd)
(FTC File Nos. X070029; X960067)
(Civil Action Nos. 96-4142 TJH (VAPx); 07-01791 TJH (SHx))

[mom2fussbudgets]

GREAT advice Linda! You're helping so many find the real mystery shopper organizations and steer clear of the fakes.



Yes! Linda has been a real blessing to me. :)

[bugspost]

Just a heads up////////
my boss(who mystery shops like me) received a $3800 check from [Corporate Research]....yes, it is a scam as they posted this on their home page back in February...........
http://www.mysteryshops.com/article.asp?ID=48

CORPORATE RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL WARNS OF CHECK CASHING SCAM, 2/13/2009

Findlay, OH – February 13, 2009 – A sophisticated mystery shopping scam continues to spread across the country, conning consumers out of millions of dollars, according to Corporate Research International (CRI), an Ohio-based mystery shopping and consumer satisfaction firm.

The scam involves letters to consumers offering a mystery shopping job to evaluate one or more leading money wire services. The letter is accompanied by a cashiers check for several thousand dollars with instructions to cash the check at a local bank and then wire the cash to a designated location in Canada. The consumer is directed to keep several hundred dollars as payment for evaluating the service received from the money wire service.

The cashiers check ultimately bounces and the customer is left liable for the funds.

CRI’s name, along with those of other legitimate firms, has been fraudulently used in the letters to establish credibility with the unsuspecting recipient.

“This is an ongoing problem that seems to be on the rise again,” said Mike Mallett, CEO of CRI. “Law enforcement is obviously involved on a large scale, but we want to do our part in making consumers aware of these scams.”

According to the latest figures from the Mystery Shopping Providers Association, the legitimate mystery shopping industry is estimated at $600 million per year and growing.

“There are many legitimate mystery shopping firms offering valuable services,” said Mallett. “But consumers need to be cautious. I tell people that they should never pay to become a mystery shopper and any offer that looks too good to be true is probably a scam.”

Corporate Research International is a Better Business Bureau accredited business and we do not charge our shoppers any fees or send them checks to cash. If you have received a suspicious letter/check claiming to be from Corporate Research International, please write void on the check and take the check to your local law enforcement agency. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us by Clicking Here.

[purplebutterflies]

Huge Thanks to everyone. I am totally addicted to mystery shopping. 1 question though. I did my first fast food shop. How do you discretely get the time while you are at the counter without being noticed??

[bugspost]

I use my cell phone stop watch feature often as it doesn't look weird to glance at your cell phone especially w/all the texting nowadays. I used it for Starbucks shops too. (course, they quit doing those shops :mad:)

[mom2fussbudgets]

Linda, I just wanted to take a moment to let you know how much I appreciate the information you provided on this thread. Mystery shopping literally saved us this past year. The money I made helped get us through my hubby being unemployed for the past eight months. And, some of the perks really helped keep our morale up. I cannot even begin to tell you how grateful I am that I had your guidance and experience. It's been invaluable to me and my family. Thanks again! Hugs!

[bugspost]

You are so welcome! Glad I could help. I help many newbies via email and love doing it. When I started over 4 years ago, I had NOONE to turn to for help so I vowed to help once I got the hang of it.

It really is a nice way to go out to dinner, grab some groceries, free gas, free pizza, etc. PLUS add a few bucks to the household. I only do it parttime but enjoy the perks.

Glad it has helped out for your family..........:)

PS Just signed up for a pizza delivery shop that is now bonused at pay of $17.75 fee plus PIZZA reimbursement. How great is that??? Free dinner plus some money in my pocket..... :)

[mom2fussbudgets]

You are so welcome! Glad I could help. I help many newbies via email and love doing it. When I started over 4 years ago, I had NOONE to turn to for help so I vowed to help once I got the hang of it.

It really is a nice way to go out to dinner, grab some groceries, free gas, free pizza, etc. PLUS add a few bucks to the household. I only do it parttime but enjoy the perks.

Glad it has helped out for your family..........:)

PS Just signed up for a pizza delivery shop that is now bonused at pay of $17.75 fee plus PIZZA reimbursement. How great is that??? Free dinner plus some money in my pocket..... :)

Yeah! I do those all of the time. If I wait too long, they even call me and ask me to go do them, LOL! Because of the way the pizza has to be cut, no one wants to do them. I am an old hat at it by now though. Did one Saturday, Sunday, and I am going to do another one tomorrow. :)

[bugspost]

For those of you thinking of secret/mystery shopping.
Is it for you??? Some things to consider:

Mystery Shopping can be tough to get into. If you’re OK with starting out doing $8-$10 shops for ordering a fast food meal, then chances are great that you can begin right away. The higher paying shops, however, are usually reserved for those with experience. If you want to earn a reputation for being a dependable shopper, I suggest visiting the MSPA’s website and getting at least a silver status certification. Yes, it costs money. (Think of it as a “move to the head of the line” pass for most mystery shopping jobs.) Many reputable companies will only schedule certified shoppers for their jobs. But getting certified is not required to begin mystery shopping as some companies don't even recognize the certification. Your track record with the company will be most important. They rely on you to be dependable and follow instructions carefully. They want reports submitted on time and you NOT to cancel.



You can’t earn money if you don’t spend it. Guess what? Mystery shopping requires you to shop (in most cases.) Since they don’t mail you cash up front, it is your responsibility to be able to cover your purchases for the shop. It also takes between 30 and 90 days to get reimbursed. If you can’t spare this money, this may not be the job for you.



A successful shop requires an eye for detail. I like doing the fine dining shops but prefer the casual restaurants such as Red Robin, Applebees, Azteca. With most dining shops, you have to covertly keep tabs on the names of every person I came in contact with, what they were wearing, what they said, what my food tasted like, etc. etc. Needless to say it is work! If you are looking for mystery shopping to be your free meal ticket, understand that there will not be much time for relaxing. While it is true that some shops require little work, others require much, much more.



Payment depends on your performance. Unlike a typical 9-5 job, you are not guaranteed payment unless your shop has been performed satisfactorily. If you forget the names of your wait staff, don’t leave the right amount of tip, or accidentally reveal your shopper status, you are putting your reimbursement in danger. I have never had a shopping company not pay me, but I have also been very diligent about doing every thing perfectly. If you don’t take it seriously, you may not be paid – and you’ll be out whatever cash you put into your shopping experience.



There are other costs involved. In addition to the cost of your shopping (which is usually reimbursed partially or in full), there are other costs. Gas to drive to the shop, the cost (if any) to put an item on your credit card until reimbursement, or the cost of a tip (which is often not covered) are just a few expenses that may come up during a typical shop. Obviously, the best strategy is to shop close, only take shops that reimburse in full (and with an extra shopper’s fee, if possible), and turn in your reports on time. Plus bundling shops........having more than one in a area one the same day is great. I usually bundle cinnamon roll, Orange Julius, Starbucks and pretzel shop at the Mall on same day. Same for gas station shops......I try to schedule a couple on same day.



You are responsible for your own taxes. As a mystery shopper, you are considered an independent contractor. While it is unlikely that you will earn over $600 a year for any one company, you will still be responsible for reporting that income on your tax returns. You can count it as self-employment, deducting expenses as needed, so keep track of the cost of your new mystery shopping job.



Some mystery shopping isn’t shopping or a mystery. Many shopping companies have begun scheduling work for companies that aren’t even related to mystery shopping. Audits, merchandising, and other tasks (including headstone cleaning) often come up on the mystery shopping job boards from time to time. If you don’t have an interest in these types of jobs, don’t feel obliged to take them. They can be a good source of income for you, however.



A reputable mystery shopping company will never ask you for any kind of fee. I’ll say this again: You should not have to ever pay for the “privilege” to shop. You are performing a service, and should get paid. Any fee that is guaranteed to get you a list of jobs is bogus. Also, there are many scams sending checks to people telling them to wire some of the money and keep rest. These are NOT LEGIT.........the checks are bogus. If your bank cashes them.........a few days later, they will be contacting you about them being fradulent and you will be stuck w/bad check fees and out the money. Many consumers have been taken by this scam. No legit ms company will send you a check and ask you to send some back. Some of these scammers are actually using names of legit ms companies.

[mncruise]

Linda, What a great job you did on writing the "rules". :):)

[blue72]

Have anybody ever work for them. and how did all make?

[^candy^]

I have a bunch but I'm new to the forum and haven't made 15 posts yet so I can't post URLs yet.:mad: