MSPA Ethics

Ethics Statement

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 lists 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!

Code of Professional Standards and Ethics Agreement - Members

Code of Professional Standards and Ethics Agreement - Shoppers