Are you looking for a flexible job that offers extra income? Do you enjoy shopping and dining out? If so, becoming a mystery shopper might be the perfect side gig for you. Mystery shopping involves visiting stores and businesses and providing feedback on your experience. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about mystery shopping jobs in Australia, including how to get started, who can do it, what’s involved, and how much you can earn.
What is mystery shopping?
Mystery shopping, also known as secret shopping, is a market research technique used by companies to evaluate their customer service and product offerings. Mystery shoppers are hired by these companies to visit their stores or businesses, act as regular customers, and report back on their experience. The feedback provided by mystery shoppers is used to identify areas for improvement and enhance the overall customer experience. Mystery shopping assignments can range from visiting retail stores and restaurants to calling customer service hotlines and making online purchases.
Who can be a mystery shopper?
Anyone can become a mystery shopper in Australia, as long as they are 18 years or older. Mystery shopping companies seek out a diverse range of people from all backgrounds, including stay-at-home parents, seniors, students, and those looking for extra income. You will need access to a computer, phone, and reliable internet connection to register and complete assignments. Additionally, some assignments may require a phone with a camera to take photographic evidence. Mystery shopping assignments can be completed online or in-person, so you’ll need to have your own transport or access to public transportation.
How to get started as a mystery shopper
To become a mystery shopper in Australia, you’ll need to register with a mystery shopping company. There are many legitimate mystery shopping companies operating throughout Australia, including iShop for Ipsos, Field Agent, Mystery Shopper, Retail Reality, Service Integrity, Mystery Customer, Marketshare Australia, Prime Mystery Shopping, The Secret Shopper, Snooper App, and Hoed Research. You can search for all current mystery shopper jobs on Jora, as Jora is the job site that has all available job opportunities in one place.
Once you’ve found a mystery shopping company that you’re interested in, you’ll need to create a profile and complete a basic background check. You may also need to complete a training program or pass an exam before you can start accepting assignments. After you’ve been approved, you’ll be able to browse available assignments and choose the ones that interest you.
What skills do you need to be a mystery shopper?
To be a successful mystery shopper, you will need some basic computer skills to navigate online reporting systems and emails. You should also have good communication skills, both written and verbal, to provide clear and effective feedback to the mystery shopping company. A good grasp of English is essential to provide thorough feedback. You’ll need to be reliable, honest, hard-working, and have good observation skills. Attention to detail and the ability to meet deadlines are also important. Mystery shopping companies may provide training and support to help you develop these skills.
What do mystery shopping assignments involve?
Mystery shopping assignments can vary depending on the company and industry. You may be asked to visit a store or business and evaluate the cleanliness, orderliness, and product displays. You may also be asked to purchase a specific product and report on the customer service and overall experience. Some assignments may require you to dine at a restaurant or stay in accommodation. You may be asked to evaluate staff interactions, product knowledge, and service quality. After completing an assignment, you’ll need to log into the mystery shopping company’s website and input your feedback online.
How much money can you make as a mystery shopper?
Payment for mystery shopping assignments varies depending on the complexity of the task. Time-consuming and technical assignments pay higher than easier jobs. Most assignments start at a minimum of $15 per job, and some may pay up to $100. You may also receive benefits such as free meals, drinks, or products. Unless agreed upon prior to the assignment, you will be reimbursed for any purchases you make. The number of assignments you receive will vary depending on your location and availability. You’ll be considered an independent contractor, not an employee, so you’ll need to pay taxes on your income.
Mystery shopper jobs in Australia
You can search for mystery shopper roles on Jora HERE.