Mystery Shopping: Certification

When applying for mystery shopping jobs you know to keep you credit card in your wallet.  No reputable mystery shopping company will charge you money……ever.   You should never pay an application fee or pay a company money to perform a job.  The only time you will need money is to perform your shop.  Remember, as you sit at your computer working on your application or shop to keep your credit card in your wallet.

One time that it is acceptable to whip out your wallet is if you are getting your Silver or Gold Certification.  There are two certification tests that are recognized by the Mystery Shopper Provider Association (MSPA): Silver and Gold.  The MSPA member companies have a huge goal – to have the best educated shoppers in the industry.  To achieve this result they offer training modules which are followed by a test.  The Silver certification is basically an introduction to mystery shopping.  The cost for the Silver certification module is $15 and can be completed online.  The gold certification is more work, including attending a conference or buying a set of DVD training materials.  The cost for the DVD set is $104 (with shipping).  The Gold certification is more comprehensive and includes critical skills for performing and completing shops.

What are the benefits of being certified?  While it is not required to have the certification some companies prefer shoppers who are Gold or Silver certified.  Being certified can mean a better selection of jobs for shoppers.  Often companies offer their most elite jobs (such as hotels, spas, and fine dining) to Gold certified shoppers, then Silver certified, then non-certified shoppers.  Having obtained this extra training companies feel you are more reliable and effective.

I have my silver certification.  It makes me feel special to put those extra letters in my application.  I cannot say that I have seen an increase in job range availability since becoming certified but I do not see what goes on at the scheduler’s level so I cannot say for sure.  My thoughts on the Silver certification test were that it was easier than some of the tests I took to shop for specific stores.  It is common sense stuff that everyone should know when being a mystery shopper.  If you have an extra $15 and are new to mystery shopping I recommend taking the test if you plan on shopping several times in a year.  It is filled with good information.