While mystery shopping won’t earn you a fortune, some people love it because it helps them put a little bit of money aside and enjoy free luxuries. Blogger and Consumer expert Jane Hawkes shares her secrets for securing the best mystery shopping gigs.
Mystery shopping has been around for years but with the current cost of living crisis forcing many to rethink their finances, it could be an option for some in 2023.
Jane Hawkes runs money-saving blog ladyjaney.co.uk and says while mystery shopping is unlikely to make someone a fortune, it’s a fun side hustle that anyone can do.
She said: “I’ve completed assignments in supermarkets, restaurants, cafes and also health clubs.
“I tend to opt for ones where I can get some ‘free’ experiences, meals out and groceries alongside a fee but not have to spend hours completing surveys and reports.”
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It’s possible to make bigger bucks from mystery shopping but better paid tasks are in high demand.
Jane added: “You could earn £10 to 20 per report, some companies pay more depending on assignment type, some less. One assignment a week for a year at £10 a pop- over £500 in the bank!”
Mystery shopping could be the perfect paid ‘hobby’ for retirees as it’s not full-time and people can choose their own hours.
It also doesn’t require any formal qualifications although people will need to be reliable, organised and professional.
It’s also a great deal of fun, as Keith said: “It’s the buzz of following a scenario, making notes in your head as you progress, and reporting back without anyone knowing who you are.”
To be a mystery shopper, Keith recommends people are:
- Prepared to step out of your comfort zone.
- Compassionate – people might have had a really bad day.
- Comfortable with the task – you want it to be enjoyable.
