I've just joined up with Retail Eyes and I'm impressed at how quickly I have received a steady stream of mystery shopping jobs from them. Some other companies I've signed up with have yet to provide anything.

With mystery shopping you go to a shop or bar etc and have a set task to carry out. You have to observe the staff and after the assignment have to complete a questionnaire reporting on your visit.

My last assignment was to go and have lunch at a well known food retailer. For that I got a free lunch and a £4 payment. OK so you won't make a fortune but it's not often that you get paid to have a free lunch!

You do need to be observant though and have a good memory. The task you are set is usually very specific and if you miss any information or make any mistakes you may well not get paid. You also need to be able to commit to assignments at set times and your report must be completed on the same day so you do need to be punctual.

If you have flexibility in your day and want a bit of extra pocket money or some free goodies this is worth a try.