According to the official Wal-Mart website, they do not hire or utilize the services of mystery shoppers. However, they are several apps and brands that work with the retail giant if you want to become a secret shopper at Wal-Mart. If this sounds like the job for you, here’s everything you need to know to find your next employment opportunity.
What is a Secret Shopper?
Perhaps you have heard of mystery or secret shoppers. While it may not seem like a real job opportunity, thousands of people have made money doing it. Even if you have considered it, you are probably wondering what the job requires and how much it pays.
A mystery shopper, or secret shopper, is someone hired by the company, a specific store, or a product brand who poses as a customer to evaluate their customer experience and collect information. Your task is to “go undercover” to see what the store and customer service are really like for the average person. You could be asked to perform a variety of tasks such as taking photos of merchandise on display or approaching employees with specific questions. Then, you report back on the quality of your experience, answering questions about everything from the cleanliness of the store to the attentiveness of the staff.
The primary goal is to observe the true conditions and interact with employees in real-life situations. However, for secret shoppers to be effective, you have to remain anonymous. Otherwise, employees will act differently if they know you are a mystery shopper, making it impossible to get an accurate evaluation.
Once you complete the task and submit your report through their app or website, you will receive payment. Typically, secret shoppers earn $5-$10 for simple tasks. However, you can make between $20 and $100 for larger assignments that require more time. Although you must use your own money for purchases, you usually receive some reimbursement or equivalent compensation as well.
How Do You Become a Secret Shopper at Wal-Mart?
If you want to become a secret shopper at Wal-Mart or other retailers, there are a few ways you can find work. First, you can get certified through Mystery Shopping Providers Association for a small fee. However, you don’t need a certification to get paid. All you need is a smart device with a digital camera, internet access, transportation, keen observation skills, and strong written and verbal communication. Most sites are open to anyone over 18 years old, although some products such as tobacco and alcohol may require you to be at least 21. Here is a current list of the top job sites for mystery shoppers.
Presto Shopper
This is my first stop when I want to view current shopping jobs near me. You can browse current job posts which include the exact location, job details, requirements, pay, and deadlines. And, you don’t need to register or sign up to view available jobs. So, if you specifically want to become a secret shopper at Wal-Mart, search the map until you find an assignment at one of the local stores. Once you find the job, follow the link and apply with the mystery shopping company that posted it to accept it.
Field Agent
Field Agent is another free app you can use from your phone. However, you must sign up and answer a few questions to tailor job selections to your demographic and location. It posts different types of jobs such as trying products or locating them in the store then taking photos. Several jobs listings are at local Wal-Marts and Neighborhood Markets. But, they are sponsored by a brand working with the retailer, not the store itself.
Gig Walk
This mobile app works much like Field Agent. Once you take an assignment, you must visit local stores and take pictures of specific products. It only takes a few minutes to upload the photos and answer questions so you can get paid. With Gig Walk, you can accept jobs on the spot as you shop or complete them at your convenience.
Second to None
This site is unique because it works with top brands in the United States and Canada. As with the other sites and apps, you work as an independent contractor. So, your pay is based on the assignments you choose to take. Second to None will send you to local stores and restaurants to review and locate products. They offer great flexibility and feature one of the best reimbursement policies.
Easy Shift
This is another free app for mystery shoppers. But, it’s not as popular as some of the others mentioned above. This could be an advantage though since fewer people know about it. Just like the other apps, you must visit local stores and complete the surveys to earn extra cash. Most “shifts” take 15 minutes or less. And, they even offer an introductory shift that tells you everything you need to know about the app and how to become a secret shopper.
Things to Consider Before Becoming a Mystery Shopper
Before you quit your day job, here are a few things to consider before becoming a mystery shopper.
- It is not typically a full-time job. Most people do it as a way to earn some extra cash.
- You are working as an independent contractor. That means you are responsible to report additional earnings to the IRS on your tax returns. However, if you are self-employed, you can track expenses as deductions.
- It sounds like an easy job, but it is a huge time commitment. Expect to spend a significant amount of time and gas driving to the locations, then filling out questionnaires and reports.
- It requires a high level of social interaction. At times, you may need to pose as a difficult customer which could lead to tense situations. So, if you are uncomfortable dealing with conflict or interacting with people you don’t know, it may not be the best side hustle for you.
- There are several scams out there to lure people in. They send checks with promises of employment, but then access and steal your personal information. So do your research and make sure you are working with a legitimate company before accepting any jobs.
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Jenny Smedra is an avid world traveler, ESL teacher, former archaeologist, and freelance writer. Choosing a life abroad had strengthened her commitment to finding ways to bring people together across language and cultural barriers. While most of her time is dedicated to either working with children, she also enjoys good friends, good food, and new adventures.
