Sinclair Customer Metrics is a mystery shopping company founded in 1987. Its shoppers evaluate banks, retailers, restaurants and car dealerships across the US and Canada. Shops pay a set fee, sometimes with a purchase reimbursement, and the company’s own listings show examples like $20 for a bank evaluation or $10 plus a $5 reimbursement for a retail visit.
At a glance
| Type of work | In-person mystery shops and evaluations |
| How you earn | A set fee per shop, plus reimbursement where a purchase is required |
| Example pay | Bank shops listed at $20; shoe retail shops at $10 plus $5 reimbursement |
| Cost to join | Free |
| Requirements | 18+, reliable transport, internet access, careful reporting |
| Where it works | US and Canada |
How Sinclair works
You register as a shopper through Sinclair’s shopper portal, which runs on a common mystery shopping platform used across the industry. After you’re approved, you can see and apply for shops near you. Each assignment explains what to do: which product or service to ask about, what to observe, and what details to record, such as employee names, wait times and store conditions.
You complete the visit as a normal customer, then submit your report online within the deadline. The company also posts specific openings through the Mystery Shopping Providers Association, often for areas where it needs new shoppers.
Types of shops
Bank evaluations are one of Sinclair’s main areas. You might ask about opening an account or a loan product and note how the staff handle it, without actually signing up. Retail shops, such as shoe stores, usually involve a small purchase that’s partly or fully reimbursed. Restaurant and dealership shops are also part of the mix, depending on the region.
Pay and reimbursement
Pay is set per shop and shown before you accept. Listings from Sinclair show bank shops at $20 and retail shops at around $10 plus a $5 purchase reimbursement. You’re paid once your report is approved, according to Sinclair’s payment schedule. As with any mystery shopping company, factor in travel time and report writing before deciding if a shop is worth it.
A typical bank shop
On a bank evaluation, you might visit a branch and ask about opening a checking account. The guidelines tell you which questions to ask and what to observe: how long you waited, whether you were greeted, whether the banker explained fees and asked about your needs, and the banker’s name. You don’t open anything or share real financial details. Afterwards, you fill in the report online, describing the conversation in plain, factual language.
Avoiding scams
Fraudsters often borrow the names of real mystery shopping companies. Sinclair, like other legitimate firms, doesn’t charge you to join and won’t send you checks to deposit and forward money. Only accept work through its official shopper portal.
Making it worth your time
Sign up with Sinclair alongside one or two other mystery shopping companies, so you have enough shops nearby to build an efficient route. Check the shop board regularly, since bank evaluations in particular are posted in batches. Practice the scenario before you go in so the conversation sounds natural, and jot down names and times right after leaving. Accurate, on-time reports are what earn you first pick of future shops.
Owen’s take
Sinclair is a steady, low-drama mystery shopping company, and its bank shops are among the easier ways to earn a set fee: no purchase, a short conversation, and a clear report. Retail shops pay less, and a $5 reimbursement doesn’t stretch far. Like all mystery shopping, it works best when you pick shops on routes you already travel. If you’re signing up with several companies, Sinclair is a sensible one to include.
Who it suits
It suits observant people comfortable having scripted conversations with staff, especially at banks, who can write accurate reports promptly. It suits less well anyone who wants high pay per hour or works far from busy commercial areas.
Similar options
- BestMark offers a wide mix of shops and payment options.
- Market Force focuses on restaurants and big-brand retail.
More options are in Gig Work, USA and Worldwide.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Established since 1987
- Bank shops pay a set fee with no purchase
- Free to join, with shops across the US and Canada
Cons
- Retail shops pay little after travel time
- Shop availability depends on your area
- Reports must be precise to be approved
FAQ
How much does Sinclair Customer Metrics pay?
It varies by shop. Sinclair’s own listings show bank shops at $20 and retail shops at around $10 plus a $5 reimbursement.
Is Sinclair Customer Metrics legit?
Yes. It has run mystery shops since 1987 and never charges shoppers to join.
What kinds of shops does Sinclair offer?
Mainly banks, retailers, restaurants and car dealerships.
Where does Sinclair have mystery shops?
In the United States and Canada.
