Theres no denying it Im a beer geek.
Theres nothing better than seeing a nice beer sampler lined up in front of me.
The variety of colors, aromas and flavors is a blast to experience for the first time.
Photo courtesy of Coppertail Brewing Co.
But then comes the check.
Exploring the awesome world of hoppy pale ales and malty stouts and porters can get expensive.
At least that used to be the case.
When I found out about this thanks to a loyal Penny Hoarder reader, I signed up immediately.
A couple weeks later, I had my first assignment.
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OK, no problem here.
How did I rate the beers?
Secret Hopper isnt about rating the beers themselves, but the experience at the brewery.
Were you greeted when you came in?
Did they offer a sampler?
Did the bartender engage you in conversation?
There is a rather extensive questionnaire you fill out after visiting the brewery.
It helps to review it beforehand so you know what to look for while youre there.
Did you know?
Just go to theweb pageand fill out the simple form.
It will ask you about your age, gender and general beer knowledge.
We select our secret hoppers according to demographics, said Coplon.
We are looking for people who want to do more than just get free beer.
We are looking for people who can tell a true story about their experience.
Age, gender and level of beer drinker is also a factor.
Choose which ones work best for you.
Once I picked my date, Coplon told me Id be headed to Coppertail.
Once my visit was done, I filled out the questionnaire and emailed a photo of my receipt.
My bill was about $16 for the sampler plus a pint and a tip.
I was paid $20 via PayPal within a day or two.
For Coplon, its a dream job.
Both my wife and I had a lot of interaction in customer service.
Its about more than the dinner on your plate.
Its about creating an overall experience.
Admittedly, being a mystery shopper at breweries isnt the dream side hustle Id hoped it would be.
But, that was never Coplons intention.
Its not a career or even a part-time job.
If youre going to go out already, were happy to pay for it, he said.
We are looking for people who want to do more than just get free beer.
We are looking for people who can tell a true story about their experience.
Tyler Omothis a freelance writer covering topics from personal finance to career advice and even lawn care.
His work has been featured on TopResume.com, Writersweekly.com and more.
He is also the author of over 70 educational books for children and a proud parent of twin toddlers.
(Can you sense my millennial sarcasm there?)
You know which ones were talking about: rent, utilities, cell phone bill, insurance, groceries…
