I've shopped for several mystery shopping companies. I'll try give you some of the basic info. ]
Basically a mystery shopper is someone who goes in and shops at the given store (dept. store, gas station, restaurant, etc.) as if they were a regular customer. You are given a questionnaire with certain things that you have to evaluate. You are also usually given an assigned item to buy which you are reimbursed for. You are also paid a fee to do the shop & paperwork.
To get started, first, you fill out an application, some have on line applications & others will send you one in the mail. They do ask for a lot of personal info., just as if you were applying for a job anywhere else. I have not had a problem with any of the ones I have signed up for as far as using that info. for any other purpose.
Some companies will have shops in your area & others may not. I get shops monthly from shop n check, but the other companies I have signed up for I just get shop every once in a while - some only once or twice a year.
When a shop becomes available in your area they call or e-mail you & explain the details & pay. You then have the option of accepting or declining.
After you complete the shop you fill out the paperwork, in most cases it's a questionnaire & usually not too long.
After you submit the questionnaire, either by mail, phone, or e-mail you are done. You usually receive you pay check the following month.
You don't make a ton of money, but every little bit adds up.
I thinks that's answered all the questions on this thread so far. If I missed something or you have other questions just post & I'll reply asap.
, which happens ALL THE TIME 
. Don't know if I could do it with a full time job, though. Maybe on the weekends.
