Code of Professional Standards and Ethics Agreement

MSPA member companies do not charge shoppers to apply with our companies Over the last several years, there are more and more non-MSPA companies on the Internet who charge incoming applicants a fee to apply at their websites. In many cases, the fee simply entitles the applicant to gain access to the websites of other mystery shopping companies. There is a wealth of free information available on mystery shopping at www.mysteryshop.org. Our site list hundreds of shopping companies where you can apply for free. As a member of MSPA, our companies are not allowed to charge shoppers any fees.

There are many non-MSPA companies that charge a fee and promise to share your name with mystery shopping companies around the country and/or find you work. This is not required but should you choose one of these companies, be sure there is a sound refund policy in place should you be unhappy with the results.

Shopper Certification-the MSPA's HIGHEST priority

There are two distinct certification programs available for shoppers within our association; SILVER and GOLD. We believe the MSPA provides its shoppers the most complete and thorough on-line and conference training currently available. We offer both SILVER and GOLD certification modules that will help you become a more valuable shopper. Certification should enable you to obtain more difficult and higher level shops from member companies. Most MSPA member companies now provide a space at their website where you can enter your certification number. It is then up to the member company as to how they utilize this information. In some cases, the member company gives a higher priority to certified shoppers versus a shopper who is not certified. The Silver certification module is currently priced at $15 and can be completed on-line from any Internet connection.

The key to certification is who actually recognizes it. MSPA members recognize MSPA certifications. Make sure that the shopping companies you want to work for will recognize a NON-MSPA certification before you pay. MSPA member companies work towards the common goal of having the best educated shoppers in the industry and we believe that the MSPA is the only place to go for state of the art training!

MSPA Code of Professional Standards and Ethics Agreement for Mystery Shoppers

The Mystery Shopping Providers Association (MSPA) is dedicated to improving service and promoting excellence in the mystery shopping industry. A fundamental aim of the Association is to ensure that the highest standards and ethics are maintained. To improve the value, reputation and stimulate the use of mystery shopping services, it is important that information about mystery shopping services is accurately communicated to both the business community and the public at large, while complying with applicable government laws, regulations and ordinances.

MSPA expects members and shoppers to follow principles of honesty, professionalism, fairness and confidentiality to guard the interests of the public and our clients in order to promote good business practices.

The Mystery Shopping Providers Association’s Shopper’s Code of Professional Standards is established to ensure that all MSPA certified shoppers conform to the following principles:

In addition, we agree to the following Rules of Ethical Conduct

If, after a thorough investigation, MSPA finds a certified shopper to be in violation with our Rules of Conduct, certification in our Association may be withdrawn. Should a complaint be filed against you by an MSPA member, you will be contacted and given the opportunity to respond before a final decision is made.

By signing below, I indicate that I have read, understand, and agree to follow the principles of honesty, professionalism, fairness, and confidentiality that are outlined in this agreement.

I further understand that not conforming to this agreement may result in termination of my MSPA certification.

Signature: _____________________________________Date:________________________
Name: ______________________________________
Address: ______________________________________
City, State,Zip ______________________________________
Phone number: ______________________________________
E-mail address: ______________________________________
Shopper Certification #: (MSPA use only) _________________