Certification
Mystery Shopper Certification is an industry trend which benefits both mystery shopping companies and the mystery shoppers they hire.
Mystery Shopping Industry Growth
As the mystery shopping industry has matured, the role of the mystery shopper has gained significance as an integral part of a client’s program to improve customer satisfaction.
Recognition of mystery shopping as a profession, not just a hobby, required an acknowledged standard of knowledge and skills to support the industry’s need for competent mystery shoppers. The result was the development of Mystery Shopper Certification.
Mystery Shopper Professional
To meet industry needs and promote the mystery shopper as an independent professional, national trade organizations have established educational programs leading to Mystery Shopper Certification.
Mystery Shopping Providers Association (MSPA)
The MSPA has developed two levels of certification for new and experienced shoppers. Silver certification is the first step and a prerequisite for the advanced Gold certification.
- Silver Certification (online training) - Three modules cover mystery shopping basics, being an Independent Contractor, and the mystery shopping industry. Shoppers also learn about the MSPA and its Code of Professional Standards and Ethics, working with mystery shopping companies and how to get more assignments.
- Gold Certification (in-person training) - A full-day in-depth workshop covering advanced material where shoppers interact with mystery shopping company owners and key personnel and network with other shoppers.
Mystery Shopping Industry Trend
In a 2006 press release, the MSPA announced its shopper certification program had reached a new milestone with 50,000 silver and gold certifications awarded to mystery shoppers. For 2007, the MSPA is holding two dozen workshops in more than 30 cities across the US and Canada. Certification accessibility is expanding, more shoppers are enrolling in certification training, and the number of certified shoppers is growing.
Since the direction has been set by the MSPA, the leading trade association for the mystery shopping industry, its member companies support the certification process and many acknowledge that certified shoppers receive priority consideration for assignments. Other companies are likely to follow suit as certification becomes more widespread and the number of certified shoppers continues to increase.
The Certified Mystery Shopper Advantage
More companies are recognizing the value of certification and giving preference to certified shoppers. Although the number of certified shoppers is growing, the percentage of certified shoppers is still small. Being certified can set you apart and give you a competitive advantage. Eventually certification or training might become a prerequisite just to get your foot in the door as it has with other established professions. Getting certified now will put you ahead of the curve.
Is Certification Right for You?
Although certification is not required by any company, it is recognized by many companies, which could give certified shoppers a competitve edge. However, many experienced mystery shoppers are very successful without being certified.
You can jumpstart your career as a new mystery shopper with a certification training program where you will learn all the essentials you need to get started. You can save time by getting all the information you need in one place instead of scouting the internet for bits and pieces. When you’re just starting out, your certification will give you confidence and be an indication to mystery shopping companies that you’re prepared to do the job.
As an experienced mystery shopper, you might find that certification can open doors with more companies and expand your business. More offers and higher paying assignments might be more accessible to you as a certified shopper. Some mystery shopping companies make it a practice to offer assignments first to gold-certified shoppers, then to silver-certified shoppers, and lastly to other shoppers.
Factors such as the locations where you shop, whether you shop as a full-time career or as a part-time supplement, how much competition exists in your area, and the types of assignments you prefer all need to be considered. Only you can determine if certification will benefit you as a mystery shopper.
What is the Cost in Time and Money?
The MSPA Silver Certification is a great value since only a minimal dollar and time amount is required to add this credential to your resume. Any shopper would be wise to make this small investment to enhance their credibility.
The MSPA Gold certification requires a heavier investment of time and money and should be considered by independent professionals who are serious about mystery shopping as a career.
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