Jones, do you copy?

5 ways to avoid being robbed for your creative work ???? ?? ???Hot take incoming. Eww. Did I just write that? Anyhoo. ?? There’s a large debate in the creative community. It centers on whether creatives should do “test projects” as part of the job application process. *Goes to Google, searches: Q: why do creative professionals use p-[macs] ?? No, Google! I don’t use macs! hashtag #TeamPC ?? *Slightly annoyed, resumes search ?? Q: Why do creative professionals use portfolios? A: A portfolio is an essential tool for creatives because it enables prospects to gauge your skills, previous work experience, and how well your abilities align with the creative direction behind their needs. Interesting... *Searches again ?? Q: Why do companies ask for test projects? A: Employers may ask for test projects during the interview process to evaluate a candidate's skills and work style, and to see how they approach problems. Jones.exe malfunctions ????????? Portfolio = Skills. Prior experience. Work style. Abilities. Thinking. Test project = Skills. Prior experience. Work style. Abilities. Thinking. “But it’s an easy way to stand out!” So are interviews. Portfolio reviews for roles are a thing. This is where an interested company forgoes a formal interview process. They base hiring you solely on your portfolio. I’ve seen hundreds of people share their experiences of doing these projects in the hopes of “standing out”, only to hear nothing or a rejection. Time passes and they see their work used by that very company that asked them for it. So, here are 5 ways to avoid getting your work stolen: 1?? Ask if this "test assignment" is a paid assignment You work, you should be paid for that work. 2???Register a trademark Protect your intellectual property by registering a trademark for your logo, designs, slogans, and other brand-associated words. You can then use the registered trademark symbol, “?,” with these assets. 3?? Watermark your work Add watermarks to visual creative works, such as photography, to prevent others from using or downloading your work without paying for it. 4???Use a copyright notice Let them know you own your work, and that permission is required to use it. 5?? Use a confidentiality agreement Protect your ideas, trade secrets, and other private information by having employees, contractors, and other businesses sign a confidentiality agreement. If the company resists, that could be a sign of things not being above board. I’m not telling you what to do. If you want to do it, that’s up to you. If you’re good at something, it’s your choice to do it for free. But sometimes, free costs too much. #copywriting #jobsearch #creatives #hr #interviews #careeradvice #recruiters #hiringmanagers Do you believe in test assignments as part of the job application process?

These 3 tips will make you a better interviewer. If you’re getting past the application stage, your resume’s doing the job of impressing the recruiter. However, if you’re making it to the final rounds and still not getting offers, these 3 tips can help improve your success at securing an offer. ??. ???? ?????????????????? It’s easier than ever to adopt a “persona” meant to improve your standing, but it’s not sustainable. Always be yourself. Interact with the interviewers from a place of authenticity and not one of checking boxes/being transactional. ??. ???? ?????????????? Interviews are nerve-wracking as it is for many. That was before the job market became flooded with so many people. Specific brevity reigns supreme. Answer the interviewer’s questions succinctly and logically, expounding naturally as the conversation continues. ??. ???????? ?????? ???????? It’s a fine line between needing a job and being desperate for one. I get it. When the bills are late, food is low, and you don’t feel well, but can’t afford treatment, who wouldn’t be desperate? But block it out for the moment of time you’re interviewing. Think of it as a mental health break. Desperation leads to applying just to apply conveying a lack of commitment. . If they know it’s a bridge job for you coupled with your desperation, as soon as the market improves, you’re out the door. Why would they hire someone who'll bolt at the first chance? Research the company and the interviewer. Act like you’re already in the role and identify a problem of theirs and how you can help fix it. By no means are these tips a guarantee of an offer, but using them makes it harder for them to say no because you'll be so great. I want to see you win and hope this helps. #copywriting #copywritingtips #interviewing #recruiters #hr #layoffs #jobseekers PS ??Repost and help someone get better and closer to an offer!

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