We get a decent amount of questions about certification -- what it is, why to get it, what to do with it, etc. It really is an excellent question -- and an important part of the mystery shopping industry. Certification isn't required, but it does help set apart the best from the rest, so to speak.
Certification is...
The MSPA has a two-level certification program that helps mystery shoppers improve their skills and marketability. It's a voluntary step you take to educate yourself on the industry in which you work. Certification was created to address shopper standarization and education. Basically, it shows schedulers that you know what you're doing -- and have taken the extra step to prove it!
Certification is an investment in your business.
More and more providers are seeing much better reports from certified shoppers. In turn, they're giving preference to shoppers who are certified. Some providers release shops to certified shoppers first -- and some shops go exclusively to certified shoppers. For you, the shoppers, this equals more shops and, in some cases, better/higher-paying shops. Essentially, certification makes you a better shopper -- and it also tells providers that you're serious about your business.
You're not paying to shop.
And MSPA strongly believes that you never should.
As we mentioned previously, certification is a voluntary step you take to make yourself better. Compare it to taking a gardening class or a painting class -- you can grow plants or paint a beautiful picture without taking a class. But if you take the class, you're better at it. You know technique, history and the "other side of the story."
The same is true with mystery shopping and certification. You're investing in your ability...and marketability.
Getting certified
Silver certification is an online program that you can complete at any time from the comfort of your home office -- or anywhere you have Internet access. The cost is $15. Once you've received Silver certification, you are eligible for Gold.
Gold is completed via a DVD that you can watch from your home. The MSPA also offers a couple in-person workshops each year at various U.S. cities. After the session, you'll complete an online test. Cost for the Gold certification itself is $99 (for in-person or the DVD), and the DVD has a $5 shipping and handling charge.
After you're certified
After you've completed the certification, you should inform the companies you shop for. Update your profile in their database, send them an e-mail, or tell the scheduler you work with. Some shoppers also add it to their e-mail signature line to serve as an ongoing reminder.
More questions?
Check out the details on the MSPA Web site:
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2 comments:
What do you do if you have paid to take the Certification test test twice in one year but the first time I paid was in March of 2008 and I just paid to take it again a few days ago 12-14-2008 or the 15, of Dec. 2008 and I want to know why is it that they don't let you know that your last payment is still good to finish taking the certification test for silver certification? who can I talk to about this issue because I email info@mysteryshop.org and they sent me an automated response telling me basically nothing and i want to know why is it i can'[t contact anyone personally to get this matter resolved? Please help or email me with suggestion @ prinia32@gmail.com, Thank you very much.
We recieved your e-mail this morning, and we're in the process of looking into your situation. We'll reply directly to you (if you haven't already received the e-mail).
You have a very unique situation, but we'll certainly get it resolved. Sorry for any confusion!
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