How to Become a Mystery Shopper After 60 | Sixty and Me

A mystery shopper (also known as a secret shopper) is a person who is hired to pose as a regular customer and visit a business, such as a store, restaurant, or hotel, to evaluate and report on their experiences. Mystery shopping is typically done by companies to assess the quality of their products, services, and customer interactions, as well as to identify areas for improvement.

Mystery shoppers are given specific instructions on what to look for and report on during their visit. These may include aspects such as the cleanliness of the location, the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, the quality of the products or services offered, and the overall customer experience.

Mystery shopping is often conducted anonymously, and the shopper is usually compensated for their time and any purchases made during the visit. The information gathered by mystery shoppers can help businesses improve their operations and better understand the needs and expectations of their customers.

There are several ways you can become a mystery shopper.

Many companies specialize in providing mystery shopping services to businesses. You can find these companies online and sign up to become a mystery shopper.

Some businesses may hire mystery shoppers directly instead of going through a third-party company. You can check with businesses in your area to see if they offer this type of opportunity.

Before becoming a mystery shopper, there are several important factors to consider.

Ensure that the mystery shopping company or business you’re considering is legitimate. Unfortunately, there are scams that pose as legitimate mystery shopping opportunities, so do your research and verify the company’s credentials and reputation.

Consider the compensation for the mystery shopping assignments. While compensation can vary depending on the company and the assignment, it’s important to ensure that the pay is fair and worth your time and effort. It’s definitely not a get-rich type of opportunity with assignments ranging from a few dollars to around $20 or more per assignment.

Determine whether the time commitment required for the assignments fits with your schedule and lifestyle. Some mystery shopping assignments may require you to visit a location during specific hours, which may not be convenient for everyone.

Be aware of the specific requirements for each mystery shopping assignment, including the skills or knowledge required, any necessary qualifications or certifications, and the equipment or tools needed to complete the assignment.

Also, you will be asked to be on your feet for several hours while on assignments so being physically capable is required.

As a mystery shopper, you may be required to keep certain aspects of the assignment confidential. Be sure to understand the confidentiality requirements and agree to comply with them.

Becoming a mystery shopper can be a fun and rewarding way to earn extra income and provide valuable feedback to businesses. However, it’s important to carefully consider these factors before deciding whether to pursue this opportunity.

Here are the perks of becoming a mystery shopper.

Mystery shopping can offer flexibility in terms of the schedule and location of assignments, which can be especially beneficial if you have other commitments or health considerations.

If you are on a fixed income and you want to supplement your retirement savings, mystery shopping can be a way to earn extra income on a part-time or occasional basis.

Mystery shopping assignments can provide opportunities for you to interact with others and engage in activities outside of the home, which can be important for maintaining social connections and mental health.

Mystery shopping can provide opportunities to develop or maintain skills such as observation, attention to detail, and communication, which can be beneficial for those who want to stay mentally active.

Mystery shopping may not be suitable for everyone, as it does require certain physical abilities or skills depending on the type of assignments available.

What Types of Assignments Are Common?

Mystery shopping assignments can be surprisingly varied, and that’s part of the fun. Whether you prefer dining out, browsing in boutiques, or completing evaluations from the comfort of home, there’s likely an assignment that suits your lifestyle and interests. Here’s a look at the most common types:

Retail Store Visits

You may be asked to visit a clothing store, electronics shop, or grocery chain and evaluate everything from how clean and organized the store is to how helpful the staff are. You might also be required to make a small purchase and later assess the checkout process or return policy.

Restaurant Evaluations

Many food service companies rely on mystery shoppers to provide feedback on food presentation, taste, staff friendliness, and how long it takes to be seated and served. Some assignments cover fast food, while others focus on full-service dining experiences. In many cases, you’ll be reimbursed for your meal in addition to receiving a fee.

Phone or Email Inquiries

These remote assignments involve calling or emailing a business to evaluate how quickly and effectively they respond. This is ideal for those with limited mobility, as it can be done from home and still offers valuable compensation.

Hotel or Spa Reviews

Some assignments involve staying overnight at a hotel or booking a spa service. You may be asked to assess everything from the booking process and front desk experience to room cleanliness, amenities, and staff professionalism. These are higher-value assignments and can be competitive.

Bank, Insurance, or Financial Institution Visits

You might be asked to walk into a bank and inquire about opening an account, or speak with a representative about retirement investment products. These assignments often evaluate how well employees explain services, whether they offer products responsibly, and how they treat older clients.

Remote Assignments

Not all mystery shopping is in person. Increasingly, companies are offering digital evaluations, like browsing a website, placing an online order, or testing a customer support chat. These are perfect for anyone looking for low-effort or at-home income options.

Each assignment comes with specific instructions and reporting guidelines, so attention to detail is essential. Some are short and simple, like spending ten minutes in a store, while others may involve a few hours of observation and a detailed written report.

How to Spot a Mystery Shopper Scam

While mystery shopping can be a fun and flexible way to earn extra income, it’s important to know that scams do exist in this space, especially those targeting older adults. Scammers often impersonate legitimate companies or create fake job offers that sound too good to be true.

Here are key red flags to watch for before you sign up:

Never Pay to Apply

Legitimate mystery shopping companies do not ask you to pay upfront fees to join. If a company requires you to buy a training kit or pay for access to assignments, it’s a clear warning sign.

Beware of Fake Checks

One common scam involves receiving a check in the mail with instructions to deposit it and then wire money to someone else. These checks are fraudulent, and you’ll be held responsible by your bank. If an offer sounds like easy money, it’s likely a scam.

Don’t Wire Money or Buy Gift Cards

No legitimate mystery shopping assignment will ask you to send money via Western Union or buy prepaid gift cards and send the codes. These tactics are often used to trick you into handing over cash that can’t be recovered.

Verify the Company

Stick to well-known mystery shopping companies such as BestMark, IntelliShop, and Market Force. Look for businesses that are certified by the Mystery Shopping Providers Association (MSPA) – a global organization that promotes ethical practices in the industry.

Do a Quick Online Check

If you’re unsure about a company, do a little research. Search their name along with the word “scam” or “complaints.” You can also look them up on forums like Reddit, Trustpilot, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see real user feedback.

Taking these precautions will help ensure your mystery shopping experience is both safe and rewarding. If something feels off, trust your instincts and move on to a more reliable opportunity.

What Skills Make a Great Mystery Shopper?

You don’t need a background in retail or a tech-savvy resume to become a successful mystery shopper. In fact, many older adults already possess the core strengths companies are looking for. This type of work rewards life experience, attention to detail, and a thoughtful approach – qualities that naturally come with age.

Here are a few of the skills that can set you apart:

Patience and a Calm Demeanor

Older shoppers often bring a sense of ease and composure to each assignment. Whether you’re observing a long checkout line or waiting to be greeted in a restaurant, your ability to stay patient allows you to assess situations objectively without getting flustered.

Sharp Observational Skills

Years of real-world experience sharpen your ability to notice what others might miss. Were the shelves fully stocked? Did the employee greet you within a minute? Were the restrooms clean? Your natural attention to detail is one of your biggest assets as a mystery shopper.

Clear and Thoughtful Written Communication

Most assignments require a short written report or questionnaire at the end. If you enjoy writing or have experience journaling or corresponding with others, you’re already ahead. Being able to describe an interaction clearly and fairly is essential, and older adults tend to take the time to get it right.

Reliability and Punctuality

Mystery shopping companies rely on shoppers who follow instructions carefully and complete tasks on time. Many older adults approach these responsibilities with the same dedication they brought to decades of work or family care. This consistency builds trust and often leads to more frequent (and better-paying) assignments.

Adaptability and Professionalism

You may be asked to take on different roles; sometimes pretending to be a new customer, other times acting like a long-time client. Your ability to adapt without drawing attention to yourself is a valuable trait. You know how to carry yourself professionally, remain discreet, and follow through on commitments.

Confidence and Life Experience

Don’t underestimate the value of your perspective. Companies are interested in feedback from all age groups, and your opinion as a mature shopper can offer insights that younger shoppers may overlook, particularly when evaluating customer service geared toward older clients.

In short, mystery shopping isn’t about youth or speed, it’s about being observant, fair, and reliable. These are qualities that come naturally with age, and they make older adults uniquely well-suited for this type of flexible, rewarding work.