Should employers ask for samples and projects before even screening applicants?
So my contract is coming to an end and I am job hunting just in case it does not get renewed.
But even from a year ago, I am seeing more and more job postings asking for what seems like somewhat ridiculous requests to me.
For example, one asked for a portfolio of creative work that was so very very specific to their technology, I would have had to create the entire portfolio from scratch.
Another one required the creation of a full app using their tools and an explanation of why you made the choices you did along with the resume and cover letter.
A third one asked for a sample of work that proves your work experience for each job on your resume.
So far, I have been skipping these. I don't want to create a full portfolio about their product before I have even been screened. To spend 10 hours on an app that seems like it may be used to help them know how people are using their product seems a bit much. And I feel like tech companies -- even start-ups -- should know that the work create at your job is the jobs, not yours, and you cannot share it.
Has anyone else been having similar 'too much' requests just to get a screening. How are you handling it?
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Tami Cannizzaro
I will never provide copies to anyone of my previous work. Happy to show them what's in my portfolio during an interview so they can see my work while we discuss different projects, but they may not have copies for themselves. This is MY proprietary information that I did for another company. Will not allow anyone else to hold it. By the same token, I will not provide in-depth work during the interview process. First, since I'm not yet an employee I don't possibly have enough information to make intelligent decisions. This means I *might* get lucky and develop something that's good, or worse, I may come off looking dumb - again since I don't have all the information needed. Biggest issue - you're asking me to work for free, without guarantee of a job. Now, I have been known to play along and provide some very high-level strategic ideas without tactics for execution - something that's more directional in nature and not completely flushed out. At least they can get an idea of my thought process without the exact details.
Kimberly Anne
They could steal your ideas even in an interview setting.
LORI-ANN BURLINGAME
It is not uncommon for potential employers to ask for samples of work or previous projects. For insteads, I have a crative portfolio that I update as needed. I am very proud of it -- I've worked hard on these projecs. In addition, the information in my portfolio is not confidential.
What I find interesting, is your objection to their requests? It is part of their pre-screening process and shows their interest in you.