Secret Shopper Schemes Growing in Popularity for Students

With things education becoming more and more expensive under the Conservative government, students across the UK are constantly on the lookout for creative ways to make some cash when studying for their degree or equivalent qualification.

We have harped on for years here at Young Academic, about the importance of finding a job and budgeting well especially when you receive your student loan. Whilst getting a solid 20 hour a week job is undoubtedly a sound approach, there are some unique ways of generating cash popping up and one of these is mystery or secret shopping. In fact, even the NUS itself is in support of it and have launched some excellent resources on their website.

Now, be warned, there are some excellent secret shopper schemes out there but like anything these days, there are also cowboys about too who will offer you very little So, the advice is very much to stick to reputable schemes such as the ones that NUS itself endorses or Amber Arch.

Secret shopping really is ideal for the student demographic due to the fact that is involves having a certain amount of spare time, being intellectual and having a good eye for customer service and quality and enjoying going to places such as;

• Offices and Gyms
• Cafes
• Pubs, Bars and Clubs
• Concerts and Events

With the above places being where students tend to spend most their time, It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see why the schemes are growing in popularity and they obviously enable our favourite places to improve their customer service and experiences. So, what do these companies look for in a secret or mystery shopper? Each scheme differs but if you can tick the boxes below then you could well be an ideal mystery shopper.

• Honest
• Enthusiastic
• Dedicated
• 18 Years of Age or Older
• Reliable
• Subtle
• Good Communication Skills

So, if you are about to embark on another academic year or even your first and you don’t fancy working in a bar or restaurant, this could well be the answer. Why not take a look at the above secret shopper schemes and see if you are eligible?

This is just one of a number of Young Academic student guides being published this summer, to help students get an advantage prior to their studies. Why not check out one of your course profiles or lifestyle pieces for more great academic advice? You can also send your articles into us at [email protected].