We all like to have some extra cash…
And it feels better if we get it by using our free time.
Nowadays, there are several ways to make money on the side.
One of which is to get paid for answering surveys or sharing opinions.
Usertesting is one such platform where you get paid to share your perspective on different products (in your extra time).
So the natural question is: is UserTesting legit?
It is, and I’ll tell you why in this post.
I’ll also walk you through the sign-up process and how much you can expect to make.
Let’s get started.
So what is User Testing?
UserTesting is a human insight platform that allows businesses a behind-the-scenes look into how their target audience interacts with their product.
It’s been around since 2007.
Walmart, Facebook, Adobe, Wayfair, and other major brands use this platform to learn more about enhancing their products, communications, and apps.
You can compare it to a focus group (like these), but it’s conducted entirely online and is usually unmoderated.
Companies/startups use UserTesting to find out testers for their new site, product, and user experience.
After the company has received enough data and input through UserTesting, it is able to refine and develop its product further.
Let’s get to the point of this post:
Getting paid to test…!!!
Just a minute…!!!
Like UserTesting, there are many other ‘ survey’ websites that pay well. In this video, I have compared the top 03.
Using UserTesting as a tester.
Okay, so the signup process is easy, and anyone over 18 can sign up for free.
To join, you’ll need a computer/ laptop/tablet or mobile device (with microphone), as well as an Internet connection.
Once you have qualified for a test or an interview, you provide your input through a microphone and a shared screen.
You will be compensated for each test that you finish.
The tests are usually focused on the user experience of a website or app.
Usually, retail sites, banking apps, and meal-ordering apps all look for real users to provide first-hand opinions.
How to register with User Testing – a rundown
To become a UserTesting tester, you must complete their practice test, which is free. Here’s how:
1. Go to the UserTesting site and sign up using your email.
2. Check your email for a verification link.
3. Watch the short video detailing how UserTesting works.
4. Download the UserTesting browser extension. It will record your screen and voice when you take tests.
5. You’re ready to take the practice test.
You should be informed if you passed or failed the practice test within 48 hours.
Make sure your microphone is working (you’ll be prompted to do so).
What happens after you pass the practice test?
After passing the practice test, you’ll be directed to complete your profile and enter your PayPal information.
They need these details so that you can get paid for future tests.
This also enables UserTesting to send you available tests for which you may be qualified.
1. You log into your account and check your account dashboard for available tests.
2. Each test has corresponding screening questions to check if you’re qualified to take it.
3. If you’re qualified, you start recording your screen and voice as you follow the client’s instructions.
4. You upload your test once you’ve finished it.
5. Your earnings are reflected on your PayPal account seven days later.
Know that you’ll mostly be unqualified for tests because brands occasionally look for a very select group of people.
However, if you put up the effort to keep track of tests, it may be a rewarding experience.
How much money can you make with User Testing as a tester?
The majority of tests pay $10 if you complete them.
You can earn $10 on average per 20 minutes, which is the average length of each test.
The length of tests and payments depends on the brand and what you are asked to do on-screen.
Live Tests are more extended tests with a moderator present.
Depending on the length of time, you can earn up to $30 to $60.
How UserTesting live tests usually go?
I read around to know what other people’s experiences were like with live tests.
Here’s generally how a $60 live test goes:
1. Once you get accepted, you’ll be given a specific date and time to show up for your live test.
2. Right from your dashboard, you can join a Zoom call corresponding to your time slot.
3. A moderator will explain the guidelines to you.
4. You’ll be sent a link to an NDA, which you will have to sign virtually.
5. During the test, you’ll be instructed to do some tasks. As you perform these tasks, you need to voice out your thoughts. Someone on the other end will ask you questions and take notes in real time.
6. Once the test has been completed, you’ll be sent a post-test survey. These surveys usually have around five questions to answer.
Live tests usually go on for around 50 minutes to an hour.
You’ll have to share your screen the entire time the test is ongoing.
So technically, it runs like a one-person focus group.
Here are some tips for you…
Set up a PayPal account
Because PayPal is the only way to pay for UserTesting, make sure you have a PayPal account.
You can set one up for free.
UserTesting pays quickly, and when you’ve completed a test, they’ll send you your money within seven days.
Their three payment statuses are “processing,” “pending,” and “paid.”
Give a to the point feedback
Companies want feedback on user experience, not necessarily your personal experiences.
So keep your feedback to the point and include reasoning for your statements.
Always include suggestions for improving the site or app in question.
As companies are paying you to find out what you expect from their software.
Maintain a higher rating.
As per your performance, you will receive a rating from a UserTesting staff member.
The higher the rating, the more chances of obtaining future tests.
CHECK the account dashboard often (for tests)
Because it would result in too many emails, UserTesting does not send emails when a new test is created.
Plus, by the time you see the email, the test may have already been taken by someone else.
As a result, you’ll need to be proactive.
Hustlers usually keep the UserTesting site open in a different tab.
A number appears in parenthesis to indicate the number of tests to screen for.
If you have the sound turned on, you’ll hear a “ding” when a new test is available.
Just keep in mind that they’re always on the lookout for specific types of testers.
So you’ll be disqualified more often than you’ll be accepted.
The screening tests are brief, and you may always decline the ones you know you won’t qualify for or don’t want to do.
If you really want to get paid to answer surveys, watch this video below. Here I have summarized some mistakes that you shall avoid to make the most of the platform.
Using UserTesting as a tester – pros and cons
PROS
- For 20-30 minutes of work, you’ll get a decent wage. If you could accomplish two per hour, you’d be making $20/hour.
- You will be paid immediately via your PayPal account within a week.
CONS
- UserTesting is not available internationally.
- If the company that requested the test is dissatisfied with your results, they may refuse to pay you. But this isn’t something that happens very often.
- Tests are quickly snatched up. You’ll miss out on the opportunity if you don’t click the test quickly enough.
FAQs – My Usertesting review
What are some other websites like usertesting.com?
The following websites offer similar services to usertesting.com, such as user testing and feedback on websites, apps, and other digital products.
TryMyUI
Userlytics
UserZoom
UserFeel
Validately
UserBob
UserCrowd
UserTesting.co.uk
TestingTime
Feedback Army
Is Usertesting worth it?
As a side hustle, Usertesting can be a flexible and convenient way to earn extra income on your own schedule.
Does Usertesting hold any taxes?
UserTesting does not withhold any taxes from payments.
To sum it up
In conclusion, UserTesting as a side hustle won’t make you rich, but it’s a great way to supplement your income.
You should sign up if you enjoy sharing your ideas and assisting brands in improving their user experience.
Check for tests ahead of time, and keep in mind that you’ll be denied more often than accepted.
You’ll get in if you keep checking your dashboard often.
Also, be sure to follow the directions to ensure that you receive a good rating to receive more tests.
A low rating is the last thing you want.
If you want to check out other sites like UserTesting, here are my review articles…
