Working Up

by Dwayne Phillips

Please don’t ask job seekers to do something for you. That is work that has monetary value. we all know what it is to give someone money before they do their job…bribery.

The recruiter or hiring manager asks, “Please write a one-page essay (short computer program, simple design, webpage for fictitious company, etc.) and submit it before the interview so we have something to discuss.”

That is a simple request. That is a good request. Let’s see your work. Let’s evaluate the merits of your work. No problem, right?

Well, producing this small piece of work will take my time, talent, and energy. Those are worth money. Hence, this small piece of work is worth money, maybe $100. “You are telling me that if I don’t give you $100, you will not interview me.”

“Oh, no, please don’t interpret it that way…”

“Well, how should I interpret it?”

Silence follows and all that. “This is what we always do. We never have anyone balk at this.”

Employers, work for free as a prerequisite to an interview or something is a BRIBE. Don’t ask for bribes.

“But how will we evaluate job seekers?” That is your situation, not mine. You have professionals who do this. Ask them.