Let secret shoppers who have “been there and done that” share their experience and help you make your mystery shopping projects become enjoyable, successful, and profitable!

Want to Get Great Projects? Be Prepared and Follow Project Specifications.

• Accept only those shopping projects you feel comfortable with. If you have to travel too far, or if you have a preconceived negative opinion about a business, pass on the project.
• Read all project specifications carefully before the visit; every project is different. If you have any questions, contact the scheduler before you go.
• Your customer experience evaluation will be accepted for payment only if you meet all client specifications, so make sure you match any shopper requirements (gender, clothing size, age, etc.) before accepting a project.
• Wear a watch to provide accurate measurements of time. Turn off electronic devices such as phones or PDAs that might become a distraction, interrupt your interaction with staff, or compromise your experience as a "customer."
• Never reveal your identity as a mystery shopper. Blend in by knowing how to dress and act appropriately for the environment. Don’t call attention to yourself by taking notes or filling out paperwork where you can be seen. Remember, you’re a “customer.” Act like one.
• If you realize you know someone working at the company you’re evaluating, stop the project and contact the scheduler for instructions.
• If the project requires a purchase, use a credit or debit card. Keep all receipts; they’re usually required along with the evaluation form.
• Don’t use audio or video recording devices during a mystery shopping project unless specifically authorized to do so.
• Be objective and report on what you actually see or hear—don’t guess or draw conclusions. Provide your opinion only if you’re asked for it.
• Become a record-keeper: Hold on to mystery shop records such as evaluations and receipts for at least three months from the date of the shop.

How to Maximize Your Earnings as a Mystery Shopper

• Look for opportunities to “bundle” projects that occur near each other and can be done on the same day.
• Use Beyond Hello’s Shopper Referral Bonus Program to earn extra cash just for referring friends and family members as mystery shoppers.
• Snap up projects that carry a bonus (sometimes offered for hard-to-cover areas or short deadlines).
• To save time and gasoline, take projects that can be easily added to your regular routine, like a quick stop on the way to or from work.
• Schedulers want to cover projects as quickly as possible, so respond immediately if you become interested in a project you see.

How to Get the Best Mystery Shopping Projects

• If you want to get offered the most coveted and highest-paying projects, always follow through on what you’ve agreed to do. If you can’t complete a project you’ve accepted, let the scheduler know ASAP!
• Maintain a good mystery shopper rating by meeting every deadline and filling out evaluations completely the first time. If asked for additional information, provide it as soon as you can.
• Make yourself memorable—in a good way! Help a scheduler out by taking a project in one of our “Featured Locations” or covering a last-minute cancellation.
• Consider investing in a mystery shopper certification course from the MSPA. If all other qualifications are equal, a scheduler will select a certified shopper.