A few years ago, I responded to an ad looking for writers from what I thought to be a reputable company. Within the hour I received a favorable response and an invitation to take their writing test. They assured me not many candidates receive this invitation, and that a successful outcome of the test would ensure paid work.
Initially, I was agreeable. I?d taken such tests in the past, and they never take more than a few hours. And sometimes, these writing tests are kind of fun ? sort of a puzzle for us wordy types. But I soon became suspicious. This test was composed of an article to be edited and updated. Instructions specified where to get the information, appropriate sources, sections to include, word count, voice, etc.
Think twice before taking any test that will take more than a few hours, or that results in a fairly complete, usable product.
This would take more than a few hours, but more concerning, when I turned in my ?test?, I would be handing over a completely updated, edited article, crafted to their specifics, entirely for free.
It?s rare, but not unheard of, that a company will use a skills test as a way to troll for free material. But it happens. Avoid a problem by remaining vigilant, particularly with a start up company or one that?s strictly online. Think twice before taking any test that will take more than a few hours, or that results in a fairly complete, usable product.
Not all skills tests are shifty; many reputable companies use them to screen applicants. A test lets them see your unedited work in your own voice, important to companies who strive to convey a certain image. And for a newcomer without an extensive portfolio, that can be a good way to garner some attention.
Even with a completely legitimate setup, freelancers have mixed feelings about taking tests, often finding them an unnecessary step.
?A marketing firm, with a strong focus on my specialty ? healthcare ? asked me to take their test,? says Jonathan Cline, a Colorado freelance writer. ?I had plenty of work at the time, and no guilt about declining. I explained I had some pressing deadlines and couldn?t give it my full attention. I also sent some links to my recent healthcare clips. A few months later, they approached me, offering some work, and no mention of a test.?
If you?re asked to take any type of skills test, assess the situation. If the company is a known, reputable establishment, and the test will take only a few hours of your time, it may be a wise investment of your time. But if the company is questionable, the test is extensive, or you feel like you?re providing them with free content, think twice before jumping in.
Photo credit: Some rights reserved by keerati.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FreelanceSwitch/~3/Ugi0fRW2HTg/
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