Tips for job seekers: How to navigate a work request as part of an interview

Last week’s post talked about how the practice of assigning work as part of an interview process is on the rise — and what recruiters and their employers need to know. This week, let’s look at it from the job seeker’s perspective. While a request for unpaid work during the interview process can be an opportunity to showcase your skills, it’s important to know your rights and set appropriate boundaries. Here are a few tips.

First, understand that unpaid working interviews are generally illegal in the U.S. Employers are required to compensate you for any work performed, even during the interview process. If you’re asked to complete an assignment, here’s what you can do:

1) Clarify expectations: Ask about the time commitment, evaluation criteria, and whether the work will be compensated.

2) Negotiate compensation: For extensive assignments, it’s reasonable to request a consulting fee or hourly rate.

3) Offer alternatives: Suggest presenting existing portfolio work instead of creating new, unpaid content.

4) Set limits: Be wary of assignments requiring more than 1-2 hours of work without compensation.

5) Know your worth: Remember, your time and skills are valuable. Don’t be afraid to decline unpaid work if it feels exploitative.

By advocating for fair treatment during the hiring process, you’re not only protecting yourself but also contributing to more ethical practices in your industry.