Question

Topic: Career/Training

To Spec, Or Not To Spec

Posted by wendys on 5/27/2015 at 4:17 PM ET 125 Points
I have an opportunity to interview with a company I've been wanting to get into for a while. However, today I received a detailed outline of what to bring with me to the interview. On the list are:

- several recent portfolio pieces illustrating multi-channel creative
- a 15 minute presentation outlining the creative I would propose for a new store opening. Must include a direct mail piece, newspaper insert, website banner and in-store signage. Also must include outline of my team's involvement, plus any other company teams or outside vendors' roles in the plan.

Now, I'm fine with the first item—they should be able to see my portfolio. But the second item sounds suspiciously like spec work.

What do you think? Should I go forward with doing all this work for free in the hopes I might get the job, or draw the line and say NO?

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RESPONSES

  • Posted by Gary Bloomer on 5/27/2015 at 5:55 PM Accepted
    You already passed their first test, which was getting an invitation to meet with them. As much as you want to refuse, are you in any position to haggle? Your name can be struck from their list very simply. Do you want to run that risk?

    You could see this as spec work … OR, you could view it as a test.

    It seems to me their goal is to figure out your thinking processes and whether you may be the best match for their long term growth. How much effort you put in depends on how badly you want to get the job. If you decline their kind invitation to create a presentation, you risk losing the chance for any kind of interview.

    Does the new store opening HAVE to be about one of THEIR stores?

    Do you have the chops, the smarts, and the understanding to fulfill the second part?

    If you do, go for it.

    Take on their test and kick its ass.

  • Posted by mgoodman on 5/27/2015 at 8:47 PM Accepted
    I'm with Gary. If you want the job, give it your best shot -- spec work or not.
  • Posted by Jay Hamilton-Roth on 5/27/2015 at 9:02 PM Accepted
    It's unlikely that your first stab will be something they could "run with". They want to understand your personal initiative and your team collaboration style. At worst, the project you present could be added to your portfolio.
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