Field Researcher FAQs
Join our panel of independent field researchers, sometimes referred to as mystery shoppers, and take part in a wide range of projects, including customer experience visits, audits, surveys and focus groups.
Assignments are flexible and vary by location and project type.
You’ll find answers to our most frequently asked questions below.
What is a field researcher / mystery shopper and could I become one?
Yes, of course! We’re always recruiting to our panel.
A field researcher / mystery shopper completes structured assignments on behalf of our clients to measure customer experience, service standards and operational compliance.
Depending on the project, you may visit a location, make a telephone enquiry, complete a survey or take part in a research discussion. You will follow a clear brief to ensure consistency.
After completing the assignment or task, you submit an online report including factual responses and written observations. Your feedback provides clients with objective insight to help improve service standards, operational performance and overall customer experience.
If you are reliable, observant and comfortable providing clear, professional feedback, this type of work may suit you.
Do I need any special qualifications to become a field researcher / mystery shopper?
No formal qualifications are required. However, we do look for certain qualities to ensure our clients receive accurate, high-quality insights. These include:
Reliability: We work to strict client deadlines, so we need researchers who honour commitments and communicate promptly if issues arise.
Attention to Detail: A strong memory and careful observation skills are essential to follow the brief correctly and report accurately.
Honesty and Objectivity: Reports must be factual, truthful and an accurate reflection of your experience.
Strong written English and clear communication skills are essential, as all feedback must be structured and professionally presented.
What types of assignments might I be invited to complete?
While many people refer to this work as “mystery shopping”, our panel supports on a wide range of research activities, including:
Mystery Shop visits
Operational and compliance audits
In-person, online or telephone surveys
Focus groups and discussion panels
Competitor benchmarking
Observational research
Project types vary throughout the year.
How do assignments usually work?
For most mystery shops and audits, the process is as follows:
You apply for an assignment in your area via our online platform.
If selected, you are formally assigned to the project.
You receive a full brief outlining the scenario, required observations, and deadlines.
You complete the visit, assignment or task as instructed.
You submit your report online within the required timeframe.
Our quality team reviews your report. You will receive a quality grade and, where relevant, feedback to support continuous improvement.
Clear instructions are always provided in advance, and it is important that briefs are followed precisely.
For other types of projects, such as surveys, focus groups or research panels, the process may differ. In those cases, you will receive specific instructions relevant to that activity.
How do I find assignments in my area?
Once you are registered and approved, you will receive access to available assignments in your area.
Opportunities vary depending on:
Your location
Client demand
Your experience and reliability
We also contact suitable field researchers directly for certain projects.
How do I apply for assignments?
You can apply for assignments through our online portal.
Each project includes a clear brief outlining what is required, the fee, and any reimbursement details. Please ensure you read all instructions carefully before applying.
Assignments are not guaranteed and may be allocated based on suitability and previous performance.
How and when do I get paid?
Fees and reimbursements are clearly outlined before you accept an assignment.
Payment is issued once:
The assignment has been completed correctly
The report has been submitted on time
The report has passed quality review
Payment timelines and terms are detailed in your Field Researcher Agreement which you will receive duing onboarding.
Will payment be taxed?
Field researchers operate as independent contractors. You are responsible for managing your own tax affairs in accordance with local regulations.
If you are unsure, we recommend seeking independent financial advice.
When do I access the assignment briefs and reporting guidelines?
Once assigned to a project, you will receive full instructions, including:
The scenario (if applicable)
Required timings
Specific observations to capture
Any documentation or photographs required
Please review the brief in full before completing any assignment.
How do I submit my reports?
Reports are submitted online via our secure portal.
Reports must be:
Accurate
Objective
Written in clear, professional language
Submitted by the stated deadline
Late or incomplete submissions may not be accepted and may affect future allocation of work.
How long do I have to submit my report?
On being assigned an assessment, you will be given a due date. Best practice is for all reports to be submitted within 12–24 hours of completing the visit, unless otherwise stated.
Prompt submission ensures accuracy and protects the integrity of the research.
If you are not able to submit the report before the deadline given to you, it is essential that you let us know.
How long does a typical assignment take?
This varies depending on the project.
Some visits may take 10–15 minutes, while others, such as detailed audits or surveys, may take longer. Reporting time should also be factored in.
Assignment fees reflect the overall scope and complexity of the task, including both the visit and reporting requirements.
All expected time commitments are clearly outlined in advance so you can decide whether the assignment suits you before applying.
What happens if I do an assignment incorrectly?
It is essential that all instructions and scenarios are followed precisely. Our clients rely on consistent, accurate data.
If key elements of the brief are not followed, we may be unable to use the report. In some cases, this may result in non-payment.
However, we understand that genuine mistakes can happen. If you are ever unsure about any part of an assignment, please contact us before completing the visit. Clear communication helps avoid issues and protects both you and the integrity of the research.
Consistently high-quality, accurate reporting ensures access to future opportunities.
What is a shopper grade and how do I achieve a high grade?
Shopper grading helps us ensure the highest standards of accuracy and consistency across all projects. It also enables us to match the most suitable field researchers to specific assignments.
Grades are based on factors such as:
Accuracy and adherence to the brief
Quality and depth of written feedback
Attention to detail
Timely submission
Responsiveness to communication
Field Researchers who consistently submit clear, thorough and well-structured reports are more likely to be prioritised for assignments, particularly those requiring quick turnaround times or more detailed analysis.
If a lower grade is issued, constructive feedback will be provided outlining areas for improvement. This is designed to support development and help you strengthen future submissions.
We also take experience into account and recognise that improvement comes with time. All researchers are given the opportunity to act on feedback and enhance their grade.