The Umbrella Organization
There is an “umbrella” organization, Mystery Shopping Provider’s Association, or MSPA that oversees many mystery shopping providers (MSPs). It’s optional for a company to join the MSPA, but it definitely amps up their credibility. Many companies include the MSPA blue and white logo on their site, like this – see the bottom left corner of the page. You can also see on that same page (bottom middle) that the company has posted a warning about the check/MO scam.
Good links on the MSPAs website:
- Their main site
- Member companies – this is by no means a comprehensive list!
- Job search – enter your location to see what’s close to you
- Certification – this is not necessary and so far it has not helped me get more assignments.
- Forum – where you can ask questions, network, and get opinions on MSPs.