Paid Surveys - Are they legit?

Paid surveys are not new, despite all the hoopla. Marketing research firms have been paying consumers to participate in surveys, focus groups and such for some time. But the Web has granted them a more-efficient way to collect data. So, many now conduct legit, online paid surveys and other types of paid, online marketing research.

But many questionable, "middleman" paid survey sites are poisoning the well, by hyping easy money for participating in online marketing research from home. When there's competition for selling an easy-money scheme working from home, you can bet that there's also exaggeration, if not outright scams.

Many questionable middleman sites charge "membership" fees for access to lists of marketing research firms that conduct online paid surveys. But you can find many for free, by searching the Web. It's how this writer found 60+ to review for this article. It's also likely how the membership sites found most they list. Regardless, some try to dupe you into believing their lists are special. But, according to messages on scam forums, their lists are essentially the same as others. Worse, some also list other membership sites, trying to dupe you into buying essentially the same list over and over again. They include sites that seem to be their competitors, because they earn referral fees or commissions when you click the links or buy memberships. A couple mentioned in scam forums even try to dupe you into buying the same list at other membership sites they own under different domain names. So, natch, these sites have incentive to exaggerate how much you'll earn from online paid surveys.

Other middleman paid survey sites provide free lists. But, many are effectively in cahoots with the questionable membership sites, because they too earn referral fees and commissions by hosting links and ads for membership sites. So, they too have incentive to exaggerate.

If anybody is earning a living from online paid surveys, it's considerably more probable to be middleman-site owners than participating consumers. Of the 60+ paid survey sites reviewed, most "pay" only token rewards in the form of goods, services, coupons or samples. Many pay cash only through sweepstakes. Even if you're lucky enough to win several sweepstakes, it likely won't lead to early retirement. Prizes at most reviewed sites range from $5-200 in cash or goods and drawings are only occasional. Some pay with points that are redeemable for cash or goods. Typically, you must rack up a bunch to redeem them for anything of significance. Most pay nothing or only sweepstakes entries for completing screening surveys, that determine your eligibility to receive certain paid surveys. A couple don't pay much of anything, unless you recruit others as in pyramid schemes.

A few paid survey sites reviewed do pay relatively well in cash. But questionable middleman sites hype hypothetical, best-case scenarios that can't possibly apply to each and every consumer for each and every hour he or she participates. In the real world, the likelihood that you'll often earn the higher of the hyped amounts is slim. Besides the reality that most simply don't pay much, you must be invited to complete paid surveys. To be invited, you must fit targeted demographics. That alone limits your earnings right off the bat, as you can't possibly fit every demographic.

Consequently, despite what questionable middleman sites imply in their "dream job" hype, it's unlikely that you'll earn a living from paid surveys and other marketing research. You might, however, earn or win some extra spending money, or free or discounted goods or services.

Most reviewed paid survey sites effectively promise not to share personally-identifiable information or not to share it without prior consent. It's an industry standard, by which legit marketing research firms are bound. But many membership sites reviewed don't make either promise, or do so only in a limited or wishy-washy way. Unauthorized go-betweens such as membership sites don't have to honor the marketing-research industry's privacy standards.

Consequently, by joining, you might have also rolled out the red carpet for the membership site or its unnamed "marketing partners" to solicit you. (Some who joined membership sites reported in scam forums that they were swamped by spam only minutes later.) Your personally-identifiable information is worth a small fortune to direct marketers, especially since the U.S. Federal Trade Commission pushed for legislation in 2002 to stop unsolicited telemarketing calls. Ask yourself if a few extra bucks, iffy sweepstakes and other token rewards are worth the aggravation of dealing with potentially dozens of pestering privacy invasions that offer nothing for your time.

All things considered, it's no surprise that some of the marketing research sites reviewed disclaim any connection with membership sites. Real paid survey sites pay you, not the other way around.

How to Find Legitimate Paid Surveys Online

Countless Internet pop ups advertise free paid online surveys. These advertisements are not the only places people can go to find paid online surveys either. There are services that offer consumers the chance to access a database of paid online surveys. It is important to note that while many of these offers may be legitimate, most others may be misleading.

Paid online surveys advertised by pop ups usually aren’t legitimate. Companies that offer these promotions merely gather the surveyors’ personal information and sell it to marketing firms. Once these companies have a person’s name, address, email address, and phone number, they bombard the person with telemarketing calls, spam emails, junk mail and unwanted catalogues. These types of scams are obnoxious, but they do not really cost the consumer any money.

A middleman site that promises to give people access to a database of paid survey opportunities can cost money. These websites connect people to survey sites after the people subscribe to the service by paying a fee. Most of the time, the sites in the database are easy to access on the Internet and do not need the middleman sites, making the database useless. These sites also make money by selling the subscriber’s personal information.

There are a number of websites that offer true opportunities to make money taking paid online surveys. These sites pay modestly, but deliver what they promise. It is important to read the find print before deciding to take a paid online survey. Many of them contradict their promises of payment in the fine print, resulting in wasted time.

Paid online surveys can be a good deal, but many of them are misleading. Those that offer small payment or rewards are more likely to be honest than those that promise huge cash rewards.

Paid Surveys Zone provides detailed information about free paid surveys, cash paid surveys, and paid online surveys, as well as paid survey directories, and advice about paid survey scams.

Market Research Ignorance

Recently, I was invited to participate in a focus group for women regarding casual restaurants. The panel consisted of eight other young women who frequented casual restaurants enough to be informed on the subject to be able to properly provide information regarding them.

The focus group started off well enough - the panel conductor introduced herself, and asked us to do the same. She did this to simply create a better group dynamic, not for record collection purposes. She then proceeded to ask us to write down our top five casual restaurants on a piece of paper. Once done, as a group we compiled a listing of these restaurants. There was a lot of overlap, especially with the big popular chain restaurants. The more obscure restaurants were crossed off from the list, and the conductor asked us to focus in on three particularly trendy restaurants. The women in the group then freely began voicing their opinions to the conductor on these selected restaurants. When a crossed off restaurant made its way back into the discussion, the conductor gently guided the group back to the discussion of the top three restaurants. This is where things got interesting.

One of the women in the group could not understand why the discussion could not involve the restaurants crossed from the list. After becoming defensive about her favorite restaurant (which happened to be crossed off), she began questioning the panel conductor and demanded to know what the "real" purpose behind the focus group was. Another woman, who interestingly enough, knew the woman who was at this point irate, joined in. The panel conductor tactfully answered some of their questions until she realized the women had no interest in listening to what she had to say. She then stopped answering questions and asked the women to leave.

At first the women refused, but at the mention of receiving their focus group participation payment in full, started to get up and leave. Before leaving the room, the woman who started the argument asked the survey conductor if the whole point behind the focus group was to answer questions about one particular restaurant chain, because they were the ones who hired the research company to conduct the focus group. The conductor, exasperated with the time that had been already wasted and the obvious nature of the question, loudly proclaimed "But of course!"

Once the women who had been removed from the focus group completely left (although not before voicing their dissatisfaction to the receptionist), the rest of us remaining told the survey conductor she handled the situation well. Throughout the entirety of the event, the rest of us focus participants simply sat and listened...

The situation was rather a disappointing one. Out of the nine women who showed up, only seven of us were left - most of us confused about what had just transpired. The survey conductor was left frazzled and upset and I'm sure the restaurant chain that hired the market research company was also disappointed.

So, what is the point of me telling you this story?

This story is simply a classic example of how a little bit of ignorance can turn a well-intentioned assignment into a needless disagreement. Had the women who were kicked out realized the purpose behind the focus group, and appreciated that the point of a focus group is to literally "focus" on something, they likely would not have caused such a disturbance. Focus groups are not about manipulating panelists - it's about asking questions at the right time, in the correct sequence, sometimes by use of "lead ins". Market researchers companies are professionals at this, as they know when and how to ask questions to receive the type of response they are looking for. As this is their expertise, major corporations hire them to conduct exactly this type of research.

Remember that with survey taking and focus group participation, you are getting paid for your opinions; your opinions on a specified topic that is. It's great that we all have thoughts about products, services, people, places, and things, but the company who has hired the market research firm to conduct the survey is only interested in having panelists answer the questions they need answered - this is why they are willing to pay for this type of valuable information.

Focus group participation and survey taking can be fun and interesting. You quickly discover what your likes and dislikes are, and it's neat to have somebody not only listen, but also pay you for what you have to say. If there is a survey or focus group you feel you would not enjoy participating in - don't! This is why surveys and focus groups are voluntary to participate in. Keep in mind (literally) that you can always save your opinions for topics you would be more interested in answering questions about.

You may also wonder about the sequence of questions in a survey or focus group. Just consider that question sequence serves a purpose, one that may not always be obvious to you as the participant. If you answer questions truthfully and with effort, you will realize you are taking part in a larger system that directly allows you to influence the goods and services of the future.
Make a difference, and have fun while you're at it. Happy survey taking!

Article written by Veronica Dubak - SEO expert, internet entrepreneur, and the owner of the successful SurveyBounty.com free online paid surveys directory. With a comprehensive listing of market research companies classified by region, and background information on the online survey industry, SurveyBounty.com is the legitimate source for online survey information.

Commonly Asked Questions about Survey Taking Online

What are online surveys?

Companies need to understand consumers, and to do this they hire market research companies to survey their target audience. By registering online with these market research companies and providing your demographic information, you become eligible to voice your opinion in surveys that shape company decisions.

How do I participate in online surveys?

Once you register with a survey provider, your information is placed into a database. When a study matches your profile, you are sent an invitation by e-mail to participate in the survey. The e-mail states the approximate length of the survey, the topic and the incentive (cash, prizes, points, etc.) The survey is conducted online and once completed your check is mailed to you, or you are provided with information on how your incentive will be provided.

What's the difference between free surveys and pay to join surveys?

Free Surveys are just that - they are free. This means that registration is free, and participation is free too. You will still be provided with incentives to participate in studies. Pay to Join Surveys are a little bit different. You pay a small initial fee to register with these companies, and they will find surveys for you that are available for participation. People who would use this service are typically those who take online survey-taking more seriously, and would like to make a fair amount of money doing so.

How will I be contacted to receive survey invitations?

When you register with survey providers, you will be asked to provide an e-mail address. This address will then be used to e-mail you survey invitations. Simply follow the instructions in the e-mail, and your survey will be conducted online, via your browser. Rarely is there anything to download.

How will I be paid after I participate?

Normally you will be paid by check a few weeks later. Sometimes other payment receipt options such as PayPal are available. Othertimes if a gift certificate or product is the survey incentive, after completion of the survey, details will be provided as to when and how your reward will be delivered.

How often will I get survey invitations?

This depends on a variety of factors. Of course, the more market research companies you register with, the better chance you have of being invited to participate in studies. Also, if you fit a demographic that companies are particularly interested in, you will likely receive more survey invites than somebody else.

When I'm e-mailed a survey invitation, do I have to participate?

No. If you do not feel like participating in a particular study, the choice is simply yours.
Is there any cost to join?
There is no cost to participate in surveys. The only time there is ever a cost involved to participate in online surveys is when you register with a pay to join survey company which scours available surveys for you to take. A better explanation of what pay to join surveys are is provided above.

Who can register?

As you navigate our website and click on a survey provider, you will be provided with information that states who qualifies to register with the chosen company. For example, many companies only allow US residents who have reached the age of majority to register, while others allow international residents over the age of 13 (with parental consent) to participate.

What do I get for participating?

Incentives range from a stated amount of cash, to merchandise, to chances to win big prizes, to points redeemable for cash or merchandise. Incentives (or rewards) for surveys are stated in the e-mail invitation you will receive, inviting you to participate in the survey. Keep in mind that when you are offered a chance to win a large sum of money, your chances are of winning are pretty good (compared to something like the lottery). You are often only competing against a few hundred other participants.

What do market research companies do with my data?

They report their findings to corporations that have hired them to conduct the studies. They don't mention names and the data is provided in a form of a report, with findings for the entire group, not just simply one individual. Market research providers normally have privacy policy statements on their website, assuring participants that their privacy is protected during survey experiments.

Can I get rich taking online surveys?

Probably not. Any website that says you will is lying. Even if you sign up with every single market research company in existence, you'll probably only have enough surveys to do as a part time job. Online survey taking is more like an easy and fun way to supplement your existing income. Who else would pay you $25 for less than 15 minutes of your time, to answer a bunch of questions about, say, candy?

How to Spot A Legitimate Paid Survey Panel

1. The site should be hosted by an actual market research company with a web presence and contact information.
   
2. The site should never charge fees or make exaggerated earning claims. Most online surveys pay anywhere from $2 to $25 per survey
   
3. Check for an "about page" for some company history and specific information about their panel.
   
4. Make sure the site looks professional, and does not just contain a bunch of links to other survey sites. Real market research firms do not advertise a bunch of other survey links, they just offer online surveys.
   
5. Make sure the panel has a members area where you can view your stats, earnings, and member profile. Also if a site offers sweepstakes earnings, check for a current winners list.
   
6. If it sounds to good to be true than beware!
   
7. Google the site. What are other people saying about it? Read unbiased reviews from other members.
   
8. Still unsure which sites to join. Don't worry I will list a few good paid survey panels to get you started.
   

(Source: http://www.squidoo.com/online-paid-surveys-guide)

United Kingdom Paid Survey Sites

UK paid surveys and market research companies online. Get paid to take online surveys in the UK from your home computer. These paid surveys are available to anyone living in the UK, free of any joining fee's. Market research companies all over the UK and Europe are looking for people like you to participate in online surveys. Complete their surveys and you could be rewarded with cash and other incentives just by giving a little of your time and of course, your
opinion!

Get started now by joining these paid surveys, and you too could be among the 100's of thousand of people all across the United Kingdom and Europe who are making their opinion count, and being paid to do so.


UKSurveyPanel.com
Companies in the United Kingdom need your help to create better products. Earn Cash and rewards by doing online surveys.

PaidSurveys.com
Earn cash and rewards from over 25 survey companies - get started today - it's free!

Opinion World Surveys
Win a personal Laptop! OpinionWorld is the place where your opinion matters. You get the chance to influence the future of consumer products including game consoles and digital cameras.

Opinion World Trip to New York Competition
Take a journey of a lifetime to the American capital of trends, fashion, music and art. Apply now simply by completing your details and wait for the OpinionWorld e-mail in your mailbox to arrive and complete the survey.

The Survey Pro UK
Free list of paying surveys in the UK. Earn up to £100/hr giving your opinion at home.

Global Test Market
Get paid to influence the next generation of consumer services and products. Make a difference now!

Voice in a Crowd
Win prizes just for letting us know what you think – answer Voice in a Crowd’s surveys to gain extra entries into the monthly prize draw. Registration is free, and gives you the chance to win top prizes ranging from cold hard cash and the latest gadgets to once in a lifetime experiences.

Survey Club UK
Earn easy money and great prizes for visiting fun websites and doing quick paid online surveys.

ECN Research - Win a Flat Screen TV!
Join their interactive survey and enter for a chance to win a flat screen TV.

Survey Spot
Get paid and win prizes for taking online surveys.

Ciao Survey Panel
Earn Cash for taking Surveys! Speak your mind and get paid for it - find out what your opinions are worth.

ACOP Consumer Opinion
Join today and get paid cash to fill out online surveys! Typically, receive $4 to $25 for each survey you complete!

Paid Surveys Reviews offers you details about paid surveys sites.

How To Maximize Paid Survey Income

Paid surveys has undoubtedly become very popular as a good source of extra income to many individuals all over the world. It allows you to easily work from home, to set your own working hours, all without the usual pressures of a regular job. Though big money may only come with great effort, many people suffice themselves with　supplementary income through online paid survey.

There are a variety of ways to maximize your income through paid survey. If you want to earn a good potential income, you can do so by following the tips below:

If you are still starting out, accept every paid survey sent to you. As a novice, you have to establish your track record with your survey provider. You should create an impression of a reliable and trustworthy respondent. The better you track record is, the better your chances are of getting more survey offers. Besides, you might just be deleting a $50 worth survey.

Use separate email addresses. Email addresses are mainly use to update you with new survey offerings available. Depending on the number of sites you signed up in, you can be receiving a good number of survey invitations daily. With more email addresses and with good track record, you can start receiving hundreds weekly, therefore allowing you to pick and choose those which may pay you better.

Use an automatic form-fill program. There is lots of good software programs available to help you easily fill in forms. This can help you sign up in multiple survey companies quickly as information such as name, address, or phone number can be entered automatically.

Sign up with a number of paid survey networks. Some people find it very profitable to sign up with 10 or more sites. The more sites you sign up with, the more chances you have of getting more survey offers. Be very careful though, as you may run the risk of being out of focus. If you are starting out, try to stick with about 5 in order to determine just how much you can do. Once you are ready for more, go ahead and register in other survey networks available.

Form a team. You can form a team with your family in doing this part-time paid survey gig. Remember that surveys are targeted to certain populations and respondents depending on the market required. You can team up with your spouse for example, and he can answer questions that are targeted to the opposite sex of his age. This is an excellent way of doubling your income.

Keep records of your pay check. Paid survey does not usually incur income taxes as you are considered an independent consultant in this case. It is best to keep a record of all your pay checks in order for you not to get trouble with your local IRS. All expenses associated with paid survey are usually tax deductible, so this can actually be an advantage on your part.

Paid surveys are undoubtedly an excellent way to earn extra income online. The profits may not come as fast or as quick, but with patience and time, you can be on your way to.