How Much Does Being A Mystery Shopper Pay?
If you’re looking for a side hustle that’s fun, flexible, and pays well, becoming a mystery shopper could be a great option for you. Mystery shopping is a unique way to make money by evaluating customer service, product quality, and store cleanliness. Mystery shoppers work for companies that hire them to evaluate their business operations from a customer’s point of view. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of mystery shopping jobs, how much they pay, and how to get started in this industry.
How Much Does Being a Mystery Shopper Pay?
The pay for mystery shopping jobs can vary greatly depending on the type of job, the complexity of the assignment, and the industry. In general, in-person mystery shopping jobs pay the most, followed by video mystery shopping jobs. Phone and online mystery shopping jobs typically pay the least.
According to data from Indeed.com, the average hourly pay for a mystery shopper in the United States is $15.35 per hour as of April 7, 2023. This average pay rate can vary depending on the factors listed in this article, as well as the specific company or agency that the mystery shopper is working for.
Some mystery shopping companies may pay higher rates than others, and some may offer additional incentives or bonuses for completing certain assignments or meeting certain performance metrics. It is important for individuals interested in pursuing mystery shopping as a career or side gig to research different companies and opportunities to find the best fit for their skills and earning goals.
Types of Mystery Shopping Jobs
There are several types of mystery shopping jobs, and they can vary greatly in terms of pay and requirements. Here are some of the most common types of mystery shopping jobs:
* IN-PERSON MYSTERY SHOPPING: This is the most common type of mystery shopping job. It involves visiting a physical store, restaurant, or other business to evaluate the customer service, product quality, and overall experience. In-person mystery shopping jobs can pay anywhere from $10 to $100 per assignment, depending on the complexity of the job and the industry.
* PHONE MYSTERY SHOPPING: Phone mystery shopping involves calling a business to evaluate their customer service over the phone. This type of mystery shopping job typically pays less than in-person jobs, with rates ranging from $5 to $20 per call.
* ONLINE MYSTERY SHOPPING: Online mystery shopping involves evaluating a business’s website, social media accounts, and other online channels. Online mystery shopping jobs typically pay less than in-person jobs, with rates ranging from $5 to $20 per assignment.
* VIDEO MYSTERY SHOPPING: Video mystery shopping involves filming your in-person shopping experience and submitting the footage for evaluation. Video mystery shopping jobs typically pay more than in-person jobs, with rates ranging from $50 to $300 per assignment.
Factors Affecting Mystery Shopper Pay
The amount that a mystery shopper can earn varies greatly depending on a number of factors. One major factor is the type of assignment being completed. Some assignments are quick and simple, such as visiting a fast-food restaurant to check on the cleanliness of the premises or the quality of the service. These assignments typically pay less than more complex assignments, such as staying overnight at a hotel or purchasing a high-end product and evaluating the customer service received throughout the purchasing process.
Another factor that can impact a mystery shopper’s pay is their level of experience. More experienced mystery shoppers who have completed a large number of assignments and have developed a reputation for providing high-quality evaluations may be offered higher-paying assignments.
The location of the assignment can also impact pay. Assignments in high-cost-of-living areas or in areas with a high demand for mystery shopping services may pay more than assignments in areas with a lower cost of living or lower demand for mystery shopping services.
How to Become a Mystery Shopper
If you’re interested in becoming a mystery shopper there are a few steps you can take to get started. First, research different mystery shopping companies and opportunities to find a good fit for your skills and interests. Look for companies with a good reputation and positive reviews from mystery shoppers.
Next, complete any necessary training or certification requirements. Some companies may require that mystery shoppers complete training or certification programs before being eligible for assignments. These programs may cover topics such as how to conduct a mystery shopping evaluation, how to complete reports and evaluations, and how to interact with company employees and staff during the evaluation process.
Once you have found a company to work with and completed any necessary training, you can begin accepting assignments and earning money as a mystery shopper. Keep in mind that mystery shopping can be a competitive field, so it may take some time to build up a portfolio of assignments and establish yourself as a reliable and effective mystery shopper.
5 Tips for Getting Started in Mystery Shopping
If you’re interested in becoming a mystery shopper, here are five tips to help you get started:
1. Research Mystery Shopping Companies
There are dozens of mystery shopping companies out there, and they all have different pay rates, requirements, and job opportunities. Do your research to find companies that specialize in the type of mystery shopping you’re interested in and that pay well.
2. Be Professional
Mystery shopping companies are looking for reliable, detail-oriented, and professional shoppers. Make sure your application and communication with the company are professional and polished.
3. Stay Organized
As a mystery shopper, you’ll be responsible for keeping track of your assignments, deadlines, and payment information. Use a calendar or spreadsheet to keep everything organized and up-to-date.
4. Be Flexible
Mystery shopping jobs can be unpredictable, so be prepared to be flexible with your schedule and assignments. Some jobs may require you to shop during specific hours or days, while others may have more flexible timelines.
5. Take it Seriously
While mystery shopping can be a fun way to make extra money, it’s important to take it seriously and do your best on each assignment. Companies rely on mystery shopper feedback to improve their operations, so your feedback is important.
Key Takeaways
In conclusion, mystery shopping can be a fun and interesting way to earn some extra money. While the pay can vary, and it is unlikely to provide a full-time income, it can be a great way to earn some extra cash and get free products or services in the process. If you are detail-oriented, reliable, and have good communication skills, becoming a mystery shopper may be a great option for you. Just be sure to do your research and avoid any scams along the way.