Have you ever been asked to do a task for free when applying for a job? You are not alone. Many candidates face this situation, especially in B2B roles like marketing, sales, product, or operations. Some employers want to see your skills in action before hiring, but asking for free work can be tricky. The good news is you can handle it professionally while protecting your time and value.
Why Employers Ask for Free Tasks
Sometimes companies ask for free tasks because they want to evaluate your skills or compare candidates quickly. Other times, they want to reduce hiring risks or test how you approach real work. While these reasons might sound reasonable, not every request is fair. In B2B jobs, your experience and proven results are often more valuable than a free task.
How to Respond Professionally
The first step is to clarify what the employer expects. You can ask simple questions like: what is the goal of the task, and how long should it take? This shows that you are professional and also helps you understand whether the request is reasonable.
Another strategy is to suggest a paid trial or sample project. You can offer to complete a small task for compensation or share previous work that demonstrates your skills. For B2B candidates, your track record is often more convincing than doing a free assignment.
You can also offer alternative ways to showcase your skills. For example, you might:
- Complete a smaller, manageable task that shows your process
- Share similar examples from your portfolio
- Explain your strategy or approach in writing
These alternatives let you participate in the hiring process without giving away free labor.
Finally, it is perfectly fine to set boundaries. You might say:
I am happy to discuss my approach or provide examples, but I am unable to complete unpaid work at this stage.
The right employer will respect your time and expertise.
Red Flags to Watch For
Not every company asking for free tasks is legitimate. Watch out if:
- The employer keeps requesting more free work than originally agreed
- The scope of the task is unclear or keeps expanding
- There is pressure to complete work without compensation
These are signs that the company may not respect your professional experience.
Why Saying No Can Be the Right Choice
Declining free tasks does not make you unprofessional. Setting boundaries actually demonstrates that you value your skills and experience. Companies that truly respect B2B professionals will offer fair compensation for your work.
Bonus Tips to Protect Yourself
- Document Everything – Keep emails or messages that outline the scope of tasks.
- Highlight Past Results – Use case studies, metrics, or client testimonials to show your abilities.
- Leverage LinkedIn and Professional Networks – Share your work publicly or connect with peers to validate your skills.
Being asked to do free work is common, but it does not have to put you in an awkward position. Clarify the task, suggest alternatives, and set clear boundaries. By doing this, you stay professional, protect your time, and ensure your work is respected.