Have you ever found yourself daydreaming at your desk about finding a different way to make money? What if there was a way for you to get paid to go on vacation? As surprising as it may sound, there is such a line of work: mystery shopping.
Mystery shopping for travel can be a great way to save you money on trips. In fact, individuals can enjoy savings of upwards of 50 percent on flights and hotels while mystery shopping, according to FlightNetwork.com. That said, there are a few things that make mystery shopping for travel a little more unique than other mystery shopping services out there. Mystery shoppers are likely to experience a few more vacation limitations when doing it while traveling.
For starters, you need to have a flexible schedule. More often than not, mystery shoppers in travel only find work on specific dates. The same can be true whether you’re mystery shopping hotels or airlines. Mystery shoppers are responsible for finding the flights and matching accommodations, otherwise they’re likely to have to shoulder one of the costs themselves. You should also be aware of the fact that mystery shopping companies aren’t likely to pay for or reimburse you for any traveling companions. But if you’re willing to go on trips by yourself, this might be the perfect gig for you!
The travel industry is constantly searching for new ways to improve their services and mystery shopping has become an important tool. Here are a few things a good mystery shopper will be on the lookout for when traveling:
Airlines
It can be difficult to find someone who enjoys flying, and sometimes it’s not due to any fear of being in the air. Individuals are often averse to flying because the inconveniences and annoyances along the way. Mystery shoppers are tasked with the job of helping airlines become one of the best around.
It starts with the airline employees who work in the airport. They are the first workers that you’re likely to interact with as a traveler. It’s important to know they’re able to handle the responsibilities that come with getting you (and your luggage!) to your destination in one piece. As a mystery shopper, you’ll have to make sure airline employees are ready and willing to help, even before you step on the plane. Once you’re on the plane, it’s a good idea to sample the available amenities onboard. You’ll probably want to have an in-flight meal and try out some of the available forms of entertainment.
Hotels
Mystery shopping in the hospitality industry can be very rewarding. Not only will you get to see somewhere new, you’ll also be exposed to local restaurants and entertainment, too. Depending on what hotel you’re at, you might also want to check out some of the on-site amenities. Explore the hotel pool and restaurants, making sure you pay attention to the cleanliness of the pool area and the friendliness of the wait staff.
In the same vein, stop by the hotel concierge desk to see how helpful the service is for travelers. In your hotel room, it’s a good idea to check out everything it comes with. Test out the TV and Internet to make sure both are working, and be sure the towels and toiletries are all clean and accounted for.
Remember, you’re the eyes for prospective travelers staying here in the future, so be sure you’re thorough.