Money Saving Expert (MSE) has highlighted a way for UK residents to earn extra cash by taking part in TV viewing research. The site, founded by Martin Lewis, says people can get paid for their opinion through The Viewers, which sources research panels for broadcasters and programme makers.
How the paid TV research works
Projects can include giving feedback on TV programmes before they hit screens, coming up with catchy titles, or deciding which personalities should get more airtime. Participants can attend face-to-face research groups, usually held in big cities around the UK, fill in surveys online, or do both.
To ensure everyone gets a chance to take part and to prevent people becoming “serial respondents”, participants are usually limited to one group discussion every six months, unless the project involves multiple stages. Online surveys can be completed as often as you want.
Who can sign up and how much it pays
The Viewers Panel is open to anyone in the UK aged 16 and over. To join, you’ll be asked to fill out a brief survey about what you watch and how you watch it, which usually takes five to 10 minutes. New sign-ups are reviewed before they’re accepted, and this can take up to a fortnight at busier times.
MSE shares: "You'll get at least £40 for face-to-face group discussions and it's usually paid in cash straight after the event. Occasionally there are online versions of a focus group, which pay the same amount via bank transfer, PayPal or Amazon vouchers." Online surveys typically pay £1 to £10 depending on how long they are, with payments made monthly via bank transfer, PayPal or Amazon email gift voucher. There's no minimum you have to earn before you get paid.
How to sign up
The Viewers official website says: "If you have views about TV, we want to hear from you!" It describes itself as a fun research panel for all things telly, offering feedback on what you watched last night, sneak previews of new programmes, or developing new services. Registration is free, and participation is always optional.
