(CNN Money) — My friend was a mystery shopper and she told me about it, but you have to be careful because there are a lot of scams.  I try to do one at least once a week. My favorites are the Leslie Swimming Pool Shops. I observe the outside, make sure there’s no trash or debris and the sign is straight, then go inside and listen for music and note how the store looks. It’s the easiest $20 to $30 you can make. That’s gas money.

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(The Wall Street Journal) — The outlook is dimmer than it has been in several years for workers hoping to get a part-time retailing job for the holiday shopping season, according to a survey of 21 store chains.  About two-thirds of the chains polled by consulting firm Hay Group said they would add the same number of workers for their busiest sales period as they did last year, even though many said they expect better holiday sales this year. About 25% said they planned to hire fewer seasonal employees than last year.  The participants ranged from Macy’s Inc. to crafts chain Michaels Stores Inc. and home-furnishings retailer Pier 1 Imports Inc. to Coldwater Creek Inc., which sells women’s apparel.  The consultants who conducted the survey said they were surprised by the results. “We keep hearing that retailers want to create a more engaging environment for customers,” said Maryam Morse, retail practice leader with the Hay Group. “That seems inconsistent with hiring fewer seasonal workers.”

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With all the hoopla in the news about jobs being wickedly scarce, we thought we’d drum up some part-time jobs that could help save those pockets from drying all the way out. These ideas are quick, nifty and can be done from the comfort of your home.

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