The Truth Behind Mystery Shopping: Unveiling the Reality

What is Mystery Shopping?

According to the Mystery Shopping Providers Association (MSPA), mystery shopping involves using trained shoppers to anonymously evaluate customer service, operations, employee integrity, merchandising, and product quality. This practice spans a wide range of industries, from retail and dining to banking and healthcare.

The Realities of Mystery Shopping

No Need to Pay for Information

First and foremost, you should never pay for mystery shopping information. Reliable resources are available for free online. Websites like MSPA offer valuable insights and lists of legitimate companies.

Who is Mystery Shopping For?

Mystery shopping is best suited for stay-at-home parents, retirees, or individuals with flexible schedules. Many assignments are urgent and require immediate attention, making it challenging for those with rigid schedules.

Essential Requirements

• Internet Access: You must have reliable internet access to receive assignments and submit reports.
• Writing Skills: Clear and articulate reporting is crucial. Poorly written reports can lead to non-payment.
• Initial Investment: Often, you need to pay out-of-pocket for purchases and wait for reimbursement, which can take up to 45 days.

The Challenge of Getting Started

Securing your first assignment is often the hardest part. To increase your chances, you need to effectively sell yourself in your application. Highlight any relevant experience and skills that make you a good fit for the job.

Time Commitment

The most time-consuming part of mystery shopping is filling out the post-visit report. For beginners, this can take over an hour. Accurate and detailed reporting is essential; otherwise, your report may be rejected, and you won't get paid.

Financial Realities

Earnings Potential

While it's possible to earn $10 to $60 an hour, the frequency of assignments can be sporadic. Initially, you might only make $50 to $100 a month. With experience and multiple assignments, you can potentially earn several hundred dollars monthly.

The Myth of High Earnings

Stories of people making over $7,000 a month are rare and often exaggerated. Most mystery shoppers earn far less. Consistent and significant earnings require dedication and the ability to handle multiple assignments daily.

Interesting Stats

• Market Size: The global mystery shopping market was valued at approximately $1.5 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.4% from 2021 to 2028 (Grand View Research).
• Average Earnings: According to a survey by ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for a mystery shopper in the United States is around $41,611, which equates to roughly $20 an hour.
• Rejection Rates: Approximately 10-15% of mystery shopping reports are rejected due to inaccuracies or incomplete information (MSPA).

Conclusion

Mystery shopping can be a rewarding side hustle, but it's essential to understand the full picture before diving in. While the potential for decent earnings exists, it requires time, effort, and a flexible schedule. By knowing what to expect, you can avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your mystery shopping experience.

For more detailed insights and a list of legitimate mystery shopping companies, you can download a comprehensive report by Cynthia Alexander here.

This article aims to provide a balanced view of mystery shopping, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges. By understanding the realities, you can make an informed decision about whether this side hustle is right for you.