Get paid to give your opinion!

Make $200 or more in a couple of hours—just by giving your honest opinion? It is possible, thanks to companies that pay participants big bucks to participate in focus groups on everything from makeup to electric mixers. Here’s how you can cash in:

✔ FIND LEGIT COMPANIES! Plenty of websites promise to pay you to participate in focus groups —the key is to find one that’s reputable! That’s why Ken Rutka of the customer-experience firm Second to None recommends checking out the Insights Association, a trusted industry group just for market researchers. You can find listings of their members who are filling focus groups near you at Bluebook.insightsassociation.org/ focus_group_facilities.cfm. “You will be presented with a list of companies running focus groups in your area. Then just join the respondent panels advertised on their sites to become a candidate for future focus groups and product testing.” Another alternative: Head to Greenbook.org and enter your location in the “Focus Group Facilities” menu.

✔ AMP UP YOUR OPPORTUNITIES!

Now that you’ve found a list of reputable companies, cast a wide net and be thorough when filling out your member profile: The more details you provide (demographic info, likes and dislikes, special skills, etc.), the better chance you have of qualifying for a unique and high-paying focus group! And don’t forget to apply to online focus groups—many companies now do real-time research where you video-conference in right from home. And since most computers now come with built-in cameras, there’s no need for a webcam, plus you’ll save on gas, too!

✔ BE FLEXIBLE!

It can be challenging for marketing companies to fill up focus groups. The reason: Many people simply can’t clear their schedule. Being available for daytime, evening and weekend groups significantly ups your odds of raking in the invites. And keep an eye out for longer focus groups: Those running 90 minutes to two hours will pay at least $20 more than a 45-minute to one-hour group, says Rutka.

✔ PRACTICE GOOD ETIQUETTE!

Be on time, and don’t be a distraction during the session. That means not monopolizing the conversation and allowing others to express a differing point of view. “While focus group respondents are encouraged to be themselves and speak their minds, it’s important to be respectful of others in your discussion group, or the company may decide not to invite you back in the future!” says Rutka.