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As a one income family, I wanted to write about something I wholeheartedly believed in, and that is mystery (secret) shopping. For those of you who are reading this and have yet to give it a try, delay no more! So what is mystery shopping?
A mystery shopper visits or calls businesses posing as an ordinary customer. They evaluate the service based on their experience through a report or questionnaire. It is used in many industries such as gas stations, banks, restaurants, retail, etc..
I myself used to dabble in mystery shopping, years back, when I worked part time. I wasn't too involved with it, as I am now. Now I hunt out all companies that are looking for shoppers, sign up, and eagerly await another job. A few good shops have included companies that have paid me bonuses to travel out of town, usually only an hour away. They need a shop done, had no one else, and paid top dollar to have it done.
As well as the shops I do in town, on occasion when we are traveling, I contact companies I work for to see if there are any jobs along the route we are taking, that I can do.There usually is. At times we have gas paid for, meals, etc. The only downside I find is having to pay up front for any expenses, originally, out of pocket. Reimbursement is usually 2-4 weeks later.
You will want to do an online search for mystery shopping or secret shopping. Remember to never pay any money to join. There are some companies out there that charge you for a list of mystery shopping companies looking for help, but you can search for these quite easily on your own. You can also check community forums on online coupon, refunding sites, work at home sites, etc., that you may belong to, as mystery shopping is often a popular topic, and others can refer you to companies they work for.
So, if your looking for something to do in your spare time, or to make a little extra $$ on the side, mystery shopping may just be for you.
By Monique
Editor's Note: Have you had any experience with mystery shopping? Post your advice here!
About The Author: Making less... go farther. Stretching the One Income Dollar
www.oneincomedollar.com
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