Market research firms are in the business of gathering data. The type of data they gather is always changing, but the one constant is, there is normally a way you can benefit from it. Currently, households are being recruited to study their shopping behavior. What this means is, there is an opportunity to actually earn rewards for the items that you normally shop for. Whether it be groceries or merchandise, firms are interested in consumer behavior when it comes to shopping. So why not benefit?
How It Works
There is no catch, no costs and no bait and switch. This is an absolutely legitimate opportunity to earn while you shop. Nielsen, which is one of the most recognizable research firms for television ratings is spearheading an effort to learn more about consumer shopping habits. Of course, major retail firms are paying for this research, but for people that know how to get into the program, you can earn some free rewards and have a chance to win cash for doing something you regularly do.
Once you sign up, if you are selected, you will be mailed out a scanner that will be used to scan the bar codes of the items you have purchased. Once a week the data from the scanner will have to be uploaded to the National Consumer Panel (NCP) website. As you upload data each week you earn points that can be used to earn gift points that are redeemable for merchandise that includes electronics, jewelry, household items, toys and more. The longer you stay on the panel, the more points you will earn. The screenshot below was taken from the companies website and gives you a visual of what the scanner looks like.
The great thing about this program is, you do not have to shop everyday. NCP is looking for data on shopping patterns and behavior so the data would be skewed if they were only using people that shop every day.
How To Get Started
To be considered you must be at least 18 years old and a US resident. There can also only be one sign up per household. The application process is simple and straight forward. If you are serious about joining the panel, you must supply all your real information to the company. The company has a no spam and privacy policy so your information will not be shared with 3rd parties. If you are interested in signing up, you can visit their site and submit an application. Remember, NCP is looking for a diverse panel so you must be patient while your application is being considered.
From the reviews I have read most people that apply are being accepted so the chances are great, but not guaranteed. For members that are not accepted there are other opportunities like product reviews that you may qualify for.
Other Opportunities
NCP is a market research firm, so as a panel member you may also be extended other opportunities if you fit the demographics for their market research. These other opportunities consist of product reviews or surveys. NCP takes its customers seriously and there job is to get accurate data so they reward their panel members for their participation.
Final Thoughts
It is rare that you see an opportunity like this where you have a chance to actually participate. A few years ago I randomly received an invite to participate in a panel by a company called Arbitron. I wore a device daily that recorded the TV programs I watched and received a check every month, with a bonus every few months. I was not sure how I got selected, but I was thankful for the opportunity.
In this case, NCP probably will not provide this opportunity for long. If you participate and find this opportunity is not for you, you simply contact the company, mail the scanner back and move on. There is no risk involve, so if certainly will not hurt to give this a try. If you are interested, submit an application.
