Kroger might charge you more if you seem wealthy! They’re testing AI to hike prices for shoppers with expensive tastes.
Want to be a mystery shopper? These are the best companies in 2023
What is a mystery shopper? Essentially, they’re like corporate quality control for brick-and-mortar retail and food establishments. They’re sent in anonymously and asked to behave like a regular customer and provide a thorough report on their experience. They sometimes make price comparisons with competing companies.
Mystery shoppers offer insight into what’s happening in a given chain or franchise. The real question is, do you have what it takes? It’s an excellent way to make some extra income.
This tip is brought to you by our sponsor, LinkedIn.
How much do mystery shoppers make?
It depends significantly on the company and the type of place you’re stepping into as a mystery shopper. Some companies may only offer a small stipend and reimbursement for any costs incurred on your scheduled outing.
RELATED: 7 tips for getting hired after 45
Indeed claims that mystery shoppers can earn up to $35,473 per year, but the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not back this figure.
If you’re looking for work as a mystery shopper, you might consider reaching out to market research companies like Elite CXS, Sinclair Customer Metrics and IntelliShop.
Some job boards may also offer lucrative opportunities. As you grow in your career, you’ll be able to make new connections that can lead to new assignments.
Being a mystery shopper is unlike most ordinary jobs for reasons that should be more than obvious. You’ll get a taste of numerous things as you work. Many companies will let you keep the stuff you buy, even after being reimbursed.
Restaurants, retail stores, banks, and even places like beauty salons benefit from the information they can glean from an incredible mystery shopper. There are some things to know before quitting your day job, however.
The downsides to being a mystery shopper
How to bring in more income in the new year by selling your stuff
Are you new to the neighborhood or want to connect with your community? Try joining a buy nothing group. Neighbors pass around items for free, which is a great way to save money on things you need and establish rapport. Tap or click here for safe ways to get free stuff from next door.
From the “I’m-from-the-government-and-I’m-here-to-help” department: Effective June 1, the federal internet subsidies that gave 20 million low-income U.S. families access to speedy internet are over. Here’s a list of providers offering discounted internet prices through the end of 2024.
Taking surveys to earn money? Don't fall for scams out to get your info
The new year is upon us, and what better way to get a headstart than to bring in some extra cash? There are several ways to go about this, from selling your old stuff to renting out your property. Tap or click here for five ways to save and make money in 2023.
If you got paid more than $600 through PayPal or Venmo this year, you might get a tax form
We’re here with a friendly reminder that the government can and will tax you on your PayPal or Venmo transactions if they are over a certain amount. We told you earlier this year about the American Rescue Plan. Tap or click here for more details.
Three strikes and you’re out: There are three important high-income skills (paywall link) an AI chatbot can’t replicate: Problem-solving, personal branding and communication. This is your reminder that these skills are where you need to shine to keep AI from taking over your career … for now.
Turn your car into your next side-hustle
Is your car just sitting idle in your driveway? Find out why it should be your next income stream — in 60 seconds
You can make money donating your poop (Yes, really)
Everybody eats. And, by extension, everybody poops. It’s the circle of life. To many, it’s one of nature’s little inconveniences.
As far as side hustles are concerned, few of us consider our daily bowel movements to be a potential source of income. That is, until now. Yes, we’re serious. Tap or click here for 10 part-time jobs that offer health insurance.
Rent a boat and a pool by the hour
Want to make some passive income? Just rent out your boat or pool! Listen to this one-minute podcast to get started.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Reader question: 'Can you help me pick a dashcam?'
Uber and Lyft have become overwhelmingly popular in America to make extra cash. Drivers can sign up in minutes, fill in their information and be up and running as an employee in just a few days.
But using your car to earn income comes with liability issues. What if you get into an accident or one of your riders becomes combative? Even if you don’t drive for a living, proving fault in a crash can be difficult. To avoid he said she said, you’ll need to protect yourself.
You could be eligible for cheaper internet service - Here's how to check
Any money saved is an excellent thing during these troubling times. From your internet bill to taxes, it always helps to do research.
As so many do nowadays, you can claim home office deductions if you work remotely. The amount you can deduct will vary based on a few factors, including how much time you spend in your home office and the importance of what you do there concerning your business. Tap or click here for our tips on getting started.
Google just banned 8 dangerous apps - Check your phone right now!
The pandemic has caused financial hardships across the globe, and people are seeking to supplement their income. People on the fence about investing are treading into the stock market for the first time, while others are following the cryptocurrency hype caused by social media and public figures.
Vets eligible to get internet for $10/month and cheap laptop or PC
Are you a veteran or know someone who is? For all the years of service to our country, businesses are always finding new ways to say thank you. Recently, one internet service provider has made it easy for veterans to sign up for the internet without breaking the bank.