Paid Pre-Interview Assignments: Should I Do Them Or Not?

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Pre-interview assignments continue to be a HUGE debate. I know what I would do in the situation Ceronne laid out below, but I decided to ask Career CoPilot (my AI Career Coach), and here are 8 pieces of advice it gave me:

🎯 Evaluate the Offer Against Your Standards and Rates

It’s essential to respect your own work and understand its worth. If $150 is less than half of your normal rate, especially for exclusive usage rights, it’s important to communicate this. You could counteroffer with your standard rate or the lowest rate you’re willing to accept for this type of work, explaining the reasoning behind your pricing structure, including the exclusivity and potential usage of the content.

🎯 Clarify Payment Terms

Before proceeding, clarify when the payment will be made. It’s reasonable to request a portion of the payment upfront, especially since the content will be used regardless of the hiring outcome. This ensures that your efforts are compensated.

🎯 Content and Brand Alignment

If the content requested diverges significantly from your usual style or brand, especially if it involves “NSFW humor,” think about the potential impact on your personal brand and your audience. If the content could alienate your existing followers or doesn’t align with your personal values, it might not be worth the risk, even for a job opportunity.

🎯 Contract and Usage Rights

Ensure that the terms of the NDA and the contract for the video clearly outline the usage rights, exclusivity terms, and any other conditions. It’s crucial to understand fully how your content will be used, especially if it’s for paid ads, and to have everything clearly defined in writing.

🎯 Negotiation and Communication

Express your concerns and questions directly to the agency. Open communication can often resolve issues and lead to a better understanding and potentially better terms. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity while also standing firm on your needs and boundaries.

🎯 Consider the Long-term Implications

Think about whether this opportunity aligns with your long-term career goals and values. While it could be a stepping stone to more opportunities, it’s also important to consider the immediate impact on your current audience and personal brand.

🎯 Decision Making

If the agency is unwilling to negotiate and the terms remain unfavorable, it might be in your best interest to decline the offer. While it can be difficult to turn down an opportunity, especially during an interview process, it’s important to prioritize your standards, brand integrity, and financial needs.

Remember, every job or project you take on should align with your personal and professional goals. If this opportunity feels misaligned, it may be worth passing up for one that better suits your career path and values. Always advocate for your worth and don’t be afraid to negotiate terms that respect your expertise and contribution.

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Career CoPilot by Breakroom Buddha

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