How do I get started?CONFUSING
NO legitimate companies require you to pay a fee to work for them. They are supposed to pay YOU, not the other way around. Study the topics on this board and you'll learn much about what it's all about. Sign up for every mystery shopping company listed here and watch the job boards on a regular basis. One company that's right in your neck of the woods is Maritz Research located in Overland Park.
Also, although people can differ greatly on this subject, it is NOT necessary for you to get certified and give your money to the MSPA in order to shop. I've been a shopper for 17 years and have never gotten certified to be able to shop. The jobs offered to me are the same ones offered to others.
Don't be afraid to ask questions, we've all been newbies at some point. Good luck.
Also, although people can differ greatly on this subject, it is NOT necessary for you to get certified and give your money to the MSPA in order to shop. I've been a shopper for 17 years and have never gotten certified to be able to shop. The jobs offered to me are the same ones offered to others.
Don't be afraid to ask questions, we've all been newbies at some point. Good luck.
Her Serene Majesty, Cettie - Goat Queen of Zoltar, Sublime Empress of Her Caprine Domain
Thank you sooo much! I have already knocked out three. Also thanks for the Maritz Research tip. If you dont mind me asking, since you are obviously experienced. Is it possible to make 600 a month with mystery shopping? Thats all I am trying to earn. It will make me feel at ease knowing this is a for real thing. It would be so nice having time for homework and studying AND pay my half of bills(:
How much you earn depends on a number of factors. As a student, a lot of it will depend on how much time you can spend on it. In any given location there are a finite number of jobs available. In your area you may well find enough jobs and little enough competition from other shoppers that you would be able to meet your goal, assuming your studies leave you time to do it. Some companies you work with may pay quickly, some may pay in a month to six weeks, some may pay in 2-3 months and some you have to contact for payment, so this will never be a smooth supply of money coming in. A major benefit of mystery shopping is actually the reimbursements. About half of the benefit for me last year was in reimbursements--for groceries, oil changes, restaurants, etc. In my market it typically takes about 50 shops to see $600 in fees in a month.
With the amount of money being spent on your education, don't short yourself on the education or experience by spending too much time mystery shopping. The pay generally works out somewhere around minimum wage.
With the amount of money being spent on your education, don't short yourself on the education or experience by spending too much time mystery shopping. The pay generally works out somewhere around minimum wage.
$600 a month is quite a bit to take in I think. Last year I averaged about $100 (including remibursements) a week,and a shop a day. So 7 shops a week (approx.) times 4 weeks is 28 to make $400 (and remember that is gross, lots of gas fees, etc., not withstanding). I would think Flash is right that $600 would be closer to 50. In my market, shops can go for a little higher. These would be $12 to $20 or perhaps higher. Best of luck to you! Also, Flash is wise in reminding you that your schooling comes first, so that you will be trained for something hopefully more lucrative. 
Flash and Carol both have some very excellent points. Also, starting out sometimes means taking smaller paying opportunities in order to build your experience for better shops for each company. Also there is a matter of tax involved and you will need to treat this as a business. I echo the advice of setting your education as your priority. (Like Willie's song... Mama don't let your babies grow up to be shoppers....no, that was cowboys.)
I would concentrate on food for yourself, it's easy, available without having to travel. Look for jobs that require easy reports, close to school and fit into your school schedule. School first. The problem might be tine, as you'll be in class during the day. There is alot of time required to schedule, but I think making $100.00 a week is feasible, + free food.
Live consciously....
Like Flash said, there are costs involved. SO let's say to make $ 100 week, you shop 2 fast food shops per day, paying 7 dollars each, That's about $ 100. Your food costs for those 14 shops will probably be $10 - $12 each, let's say $10 to make it simple. SO, You will pay out $ 140 up front to make your $100. You will get your money back, (If you do the shop properly.) but it may take 30-60 days.
You will find that it is best to have about $300 in floating money to start shopping, if you do food reimbursement. You might want to do "big box" retail shops that do not require a cash outlay before you start fast food shopping. If you were planning on spending the $20 per day on fast food anyway, it really wouldn't matter. (We are also assuming that you can pick up 2 fast food shops in your area 7 days each week. That might be tough.)Somebody correct me if I am off base here.
You will find that it is best to have about $300 in floating money to start shopping, if you do food reimbursement. You might want to do "big box" retail shops that do not require a cash outlay before you start fast food shopping. If you were planning on spending the $20 per day on fast food anyway, it really wouldn't matter. (We are also assuming that you can pick up 2 fast food shops in your area 7 days each week. That might be tough.)Somebody correct me if I am off base here.
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