The Unethical Practice of Using Product Management Candidates for Free Labor: Time to End the Trend of Ghosting After Case Study Presentations

As a Product Manager, I have experienced the unethical practice of companies using candidates for free labor by requesting case study presentations during the interview process and then ghosting them afterward. This trend not only harms job seekers but also reflects poorly on companies that engage in these practices. In this article, I will discuss the impact of this trend, how to recognize it, and strategies for candidates to avoid being taken advantage of.

The Impact of the Trend

When companies request case study presentations during the interview process and then ghost candidates, it creates a negative impact on both the job seeker and the industry. Job seekers invest a significant amount of time and energy into creating these presentations, often sacrificing their personal time and resources to produce a high-quality product. When companies do not provide feedback or communication after the interview process, it can be demoralizing and frustrating for candidates, ultimately leading to a loss of faith in the industry as a whole.

Additionally, when companies engage in these unethical practices, it not only harms the job seeker but also the company's reputation. Candidates are not just applying for a job; they are also assessing whether a company is a good fit for them. Companies that treat candidates poorly during the interview process risk losing top talent and may damage their brand reputation.

Recognizing the Trend

It's essential to recognize the signs of this trend to avoid being taken advantage of. One of the most common signs is when a company requests a case study presentation as part of the interview process but does not provide clear guidelines or expectations for the presentation. This lack of transparency can be a red flag for candidates. Another sign is when a company fails to provide feedback or communication after the interview process. While it's not uncommon for companies to take some time to make a decision, a lack of communication is a sign that a company is not respectful of candidates' time and effort.

Strategies for Candidates

To avoid being taken advantage of during the interview process, candidates can take several steps to protect themselves. Firstly, candidates should always ask for clear guidelines and expectations for any case study presentations requested by a company. This will help ensure that candidates invest their time and effort in producing work that aligns with the company's expectations. Secondly, candidates should be cautious when working on case study presentations outside of an interview setting. If a company requests work before offering an interview, it's important to assess the legitimacy of the company before investing any time and effort. Lastly, candidates should prioritize companies that prioritize them. When a company shows respect and professionalism during the interview process, it's a good sign that they will treat their employees well.

In conclusion, it's time to end the trend of companies using product management candidates for free labor by requesting case study presentations during the interview process and then ghosting them afterward. This unethical practice not only harms job seekers but also damages the reputation of companies that engage in these practices. As candidates, it's important to recognize the signs of this trend and take steps to protect ourselves. By being proactive and prioritizing companies that prioritize us, we can create a more respectful and fair hiring process for all.