Mystery Shopper Companies - What You Need to Avoid
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There are literally hundreds of mystery shopper companies out there and not all of them are as genuine as they claim to be. The need for mystery shoppers has increased dramatically over the past few years which is why so many mystery shopper companies exist today. Typically in America there are around 400 different companies that you can apply to. In order to find a decent company you will want to look at their customer satisfaction and how long they have been running for. To put it into perspective, in the year 2003-2004 mystery shopper companies increased by 11%. It is thought that the value of the industry is over $600 million.
Most people have a good idea of what to look for in good mystery shopper companies but we wanted to dedicate an article about the specific things you should avoid. Unfortunately, some people become greedy, always looking for ways of making money but without putting in the time and effort to do it the right, or even legal way. This means that customers are ripped off, often for large sums of money, and shoppers are paid with bogus cashiers or standard checks. You need to all you can to protect yourself when making a decision about mystery shopper companies.
Of all known issues that relate to mystery shopper companies, fraud with bad checks or other payment means is by far the most serious and prevalent. In this case, consumers are being sent letters or finding classified advertisements that promise a way of earning quick cash or gifts by performing mystery shops and/or service evaluations. One scheme in particular involves so-called mystery shopper companies, asking shoppers to cash checks, followed by wiring the money back to a certain address, most often to a foreign country.
For handling, the shopper is told he/she would keep a percentage of the check. However, once the check is cashed, the shopper is advised within a few days by the bank that it bounced, leaving him/her with serious financial issues that could be as much as $5,000! One company, GFK Custom Research, explains through their North America’s marketing communication department that they are taking this personal, working to get the word out about this horrific crime. GFK is among a list of top mystery shopper companies and they do not want their reputation smeared.
If you are looking for one of the best mystery shopper companies then MSPA is one that you should contact. They aim to give businesses exactly what they need in order to improve and they are also constantly exposing various different fraudulent schemes.
Some things that you can do to avoid choosing the wrong company are to say no to anyone who requests you to pay them a few for being associated with their company. Also, if anyone asks you to cash a check and wire money, it is likely a fraudulent situation. If you avoid these things in your search, you will be able to avoid any potential negative company choices, allowing you to select a great match to earn extra income.
You need money, they need shoppers. Mystery shopper companies need you to tell them what they are doing wrong. Your words, their money in you pocket. Free Mystery Shopper
