For anyone looking to earn extra income while shopping, dining out, or catching a movie, mystery shopping might just be the perfect side hustle. But as appealing as it sounds, this industry has its fair share of pitfalls. Scams promising easy money abound and even the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns against fraudsters targeting would-be shoppers. That’s why Mercedes Eckert, a seasoned mystery shopping expert, is stepping up to provide a clear, trustworthy path into this exciting world.
What Is Mystery Shopping? At its core, mystery shopping is about evaluating customer experiences. Companies hire undercover shoppers to visit their stores, test their services, and report back on everything from employee friendliness to product quality. It’s a win-win: businesses improve their service, and shoppers get paid for their feedback. But Eckert, founder of iShop, cautions against rushing into the field without doing some homework.
Mystery shoppers play a vital role in helping businesses identify areas for improvement. From ensuring their staff provides top-notch service to checking the cleanliness of facilities, shoppers act as the eyes and ears of companies looking to stay competitive. This unique blend of detective work and consumer advocacy makes mystery shopping an intriguing and rewarding opportunity.
A Leader in the Industry. Mercedes Eckert’s journey into mystery shopping began like it does for many—as a way to make a little extra money. A busy mom of two, she was looking for something flexible yet rewarding. Nearly a decade later, she’s become a leader in the industry, having trained over 17,000 mystery shoppers through her company, iShop.
“I wanted to create something that equips people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed,” she says. iShop, a BBB-accredited Mystery Shopping Organization (MSO), offers beginner training. This program includes everything a new mystery shopper needs to get started: scam-avoidance strategies, tips for landing assignments, and connections to reputable companies. Eckert emphasizes that her mission is to demystify the industry while ensuring newcomers avoid common pitfalls. “It’s about more than just earning money,” she notes. “It’s about learning to navigate a complex field with confidence and integrity.”
The Earning Potential: Realistic Expectations. While mystery shopping isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme, it can be a lucrative side hustle. Part-time shoppers typically earn $200 to $500 a week, while dedicated full-timers may make $1,000 or more. Plus, there are plenty of perks, like free meals, entertainment, and shopping trips. “You can make decent money, but it takes effort and consistency,” Eckert advises. “Treat it like any other job, and you’ll see results.” She also points out that mystery shopping can be a great way to offset everyday expenses. Whether it’s enjoying complimentary meals at a favorite restaurant or scoring free tickets to a movie, the benefits often extend beyond the paycheck.
Spotting Scams in the Mystery Shopping World. The mystery shopping industry is rife with scams, from fake job offers to absurd promises of sky-high earnings. Eckert urges aspiring shoppers to stick with established MSOs, like iShop, that work directly with legitimate providers. “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” she says. “Real opportunities exist, but they require diligence and care.”
A Supportive Community That’s Geared Toward Success. For Eckert, mystery shopping is about more than just making money. Through iShop, she’s building a supportive community where mystery shoppers can grow and thrive. From free webinars to ongoing education, her programs help demystify the industry and set shoppers up for success.
“Mystery shopping isn’t just a gig,” Eckert says. “It’s a way to contribute to better customer service while creating a flexible income stream for yourself.” This sense of community has been a game-changer for many of her students. One new mystery shopper described iShop as “a true way of learning the world of mystery shopping,” noting how Eckert’s hands-on approach provided the confidence and skills they needed. Others have praised the practical tools and resources that helped them transform mystery shopping into a reliable source of income.
For those ready to dive in, iShop offers a 35-minute free mystery shopping webinar that covers everything from scam prevention to how mystery shopping works. And for those curious to learn more or connect directly, Mercedes Eckert and her team love sharing insights, tips, and encouragement on iShop’s Facebook page. As she puts it, “Mystery shopping is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to explore your world, make a difference, and earn along the way.”
