How to Become a Secret Shopper in California

As a secret shopper, you get paid to shop.

As a secret shopper, you can earn extra money on your own terms, or work full-time. Secret shoppers evaluate a variety of stores including retail stores, grocery stores, wholesale clubs and specialty shops. They may also review restaurants, hotels and spas. Secret shoppers must use their own money when they evaluate stores; however, they will be reimbursed for what they purchase once they complete the task. For those who live in California, there are secret shopper silver and gold certifications. The silver certification is an online exam testing basic reading comprehension. The gold certification is a one day workshop that covers in-depth information on secret shopping. As of 2010, Burbank is the only city in California that offers gold certification training. Once certified, you can mystery shop in the state of California.

Instructions

1. Study for your silver certification from the Mystery Shopping Providers Association website. You need the silver certificate before you can apply for the gold certificate in Burbank, California. Study the three modules and take the tests on each one.

2. Find out if you passed the test from the email the MSPA sends to you. Write down the confirmation number on your certificate or print out the certificate. You will need this number in order to apply for the gold certification workshop.

3. Look for the gold certificate opportunities on the MSPA website. You will see information on their workshop in Burbank, California. It will take you to the information about their gold certification.

4. Log in to the website. You will need to enter your email address and confirmation number from your silver certification. With this information, you will be able to register for the workshop.

5. Pay the fee for the gold certification website. As of 2010, the price for the workshop is $125, which includes a copy of the gold certification DVD. You can use a credit card, Pay Pal or debit card to pay for the workshop.

6. Arrive at the Burbank workshop early. Make sure to check in at least 30 minutes before the workshop starts. If you arrive later than the required time, you will not be able to participate. You will have to take the gold certification at another time.

7. Take the gold certification test. You will either take the test at the workshop or at home. The exam tests you on what you learned during the workshop.

8. Notify the secret shopper company you work for that you are gold certified. Email them your confirmation number, but do not call them because they will verify your status by your email address and confirmation number. If you are looking for mystery shopping jobs, go to the "Search for Assignments" section of the MSPA website.

Tips & Warnings

• If permitted, take notes during the workshop to help you better remember the information.

• Use a voice recorder to record important details when completing shopping assignments.

• You should never pay a company to find mystery shopping jobs.

• Don't be late on completing shopping assignments.

References

• Mystery Shop: Certification
• Mystery Shop: Gold Certification