Now D.S. does not make this amount every month and even her results are not typical, because mystery shopping income depends on several factors including where you live, the types of assignments you do, the quality of your work, your professionalism and your efforts. Top mystery shoppers in major markets typically earn about $1,000 in actual cash and high-end freebies in a month's time--and experienced shoppers who get involved in specialized shops like audio and video, or complementary lines of work like report editing or scheduling can often make double or triple that figure.But this shows you that you can make money as a professional mystery shopper!
Quit Your Day Job?
No. I don't recommend anyone ever quit
their "day job". I believe mystery shopping
and merchandising are best done to
supplement income from other sources. I,
personally do a combination of things to
bring in my desired level of income, and
believe that successful self-employment is
usually the result of doing a combination of
things that give you the flexible lifestyle and
money you desire to meet your needs.
But, it does happen from time-to-time.
My book customer, Patrick Blakeslee of
Richmond, VA, wrote to tell me: "The day I bought your book changed my life! I have followed your advice, almost to the letter, and it has paid off in spades. In the last three weeks I have done over 35 mystery shops and I am currently scheduled to perform approximately fifteen more over the next week. Many of the shops I have completed included bonuses for upcoming deadlines or remote areas.
I gave my two week notice to my employer and now mystery shop full-time. The pay has at least equaled in value what I was making as a restaurant manager, and can easily surpass that amount as I become more experienced with my digital recording shops. I can't tell you what a relief it is to not put on a uniform five days a week and have someone else dictate my schedule. Thanks for writing your books and sharing your secrets. I just bought your second book last week, and I am working on making my business grow even more profitable."
(Editor's Note: Again, while I am thrilled for Patrick's success, most people should only use mystery shopping and merchandising to supplement their incomes and not count on it as full-time work. But I did want you to know that it is possible to make good money for your time--sometimes more than you'd think).
"I applied to 100
companies but I
didn't hear anything!"
Unfortunately, the most common
error newbie mystery shoppers
make is that they go berserk
applying to mystery shopping
company web sites left and
right. Signing up with any and
all companies is the last thing
you want to do when you are
just starting out--unless you
want to be a new mystery
shopper with sore fingers.
Want to know why? Read my article --Getting Started In Mystery Shopping The Right Way!
"I do some mystery shopping, but I just don't seem to be able to make the good money that I hear other mystery shoppers earn!"
This is the number one comment I hear from experienced shoppers as an author, e-zine publisher and personal coach devoted to the mystery shopping field. If you're in this situation, you're not alone. Mystery shoppers can either end up being in high demand, making top dollar for each assignment, or they can be stuck with the worst assignments being underpaid and trying to live off free hamburgers.
Based on my work with other shoppers, you probably fall into one of the following groups:
1. You've got "paid to shop, eat for free" syndrome.
Too many mystery shoppers focus on this side of mystery shopping. It may be fun, but you pay a high price in terms of earning money to be a mall rat or a fast food junkie. Besides, there are many other shops out there that are fun too and pay a lot better.
2. You're an experienced shopper who has hit a plateau--much like when you work out or try to lose weight.
You've had some success, but you have not reached your goals. Assuming your goals are realistic for the amount of time and effort you are willing to put in; you are open to doing other kinds of shops; and there is good market demand in your area (or one that is reasonably close by), you just need some help. This usually involves creating an efficient system for yourself and taking the time to do some very simple things that will help you stand out from the crowd. Then you can break through and reach your maximum earnings potential!
Check out all of my mystery shopping resources mentioned above and get a copy of my book How-To Finally Make Money As A Mystery Shopper.There's a big difference between having years of shopper experience and actually making money at it!
"I have very thoroughly checked out your website and have found it to be extremely generous in the sharing of your wisdom, expertise and suggestions"--Barbara L. Walnut Creek, CA
FREESubscription to my monthly e-zine Perfect Work-At-Home Job Update (Former NCPMS Winner--Newsletter Of The Year, Former Finalist). Each issue features quality articles, tips and resources for those who want to earn the top money in the mystery shopping field. Also included is my popular Ask TheCoach column where I answer select questions from my readers in "tell it like it is style"! SUBSCRIBE HERE
FREEMy Blog, Mystery Shopper Coach's Corner Is Back!
FREEArticle Collection--there's solid information here for everyone--newbie, beginner or experienced shopper--including FAQs that will answer many of the questions you may have about mystery shopping CLICK HERE
Georgia (name withheld by request, written customer testimonial on file), who read both of my books and worked with me as a coaching client. She earned a terrific $1,980 in mystery shopper earnings in January. Way to go!
Please note that all links are provided for your convenience. While we believe that these xompanies are reputable, be sure to always properly investigate any company you decide to do work with. We assume no responsibility or liability for any losses incurred with the use of this information.
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