How to Request a Writing Sample From a Candidate: Tips and Best Practices

Introduction

When hiring new employees, it’s important to get an accurate understanding of their skills and abilities. One way to do this is by requesting a writing sample from job candidates. A writing sample can give employers insight into the candidate’s ability to communicate effectively and clearly, as well as their writing style and grammar proficiency.

In this article, we’ll explore how to request a writing sample from a candidate. We’ll go over tips for crafting an email request for writing samples, what to include in the email, what to look for in writing samples, and questions to consider before requesting writing samples.

Crafting an Email Request for Writing Samples from Job Candidates

The first step in requesting a writing sample from a job candidate is to craft an email request. When writing the email, it’s important to be clear and concise. You should also avoid using industry jargon or complex language that could be difficult for the candidate to understand.

Tips for Writing an Email Request

• Keep the message short and to the point.
• Explain why you are requesting a writing sample and how it will be used.
• Provide clear instructions on what should be included in the writing sample (i.e., topic, length, format, etc.).
• Include a timeline for when the writing sample should be submitted.
• Be polite and professional.

What to Include in the Email

When sending an email request for a writing sample, it’s important to provide as much information as possible about the writing sample. This includes the following:

• A brief description of the writing sample (i.e., topic, length, format, etc.).
• Instructions on how to submit the writing sample (e.g., email attachment, online form, etc.).
• Timeline for when the writing sample should be submitted.
• Any other relevant information (e.g., contact information, deadlines, etc.).

Tips for Asking for Writing Samples from Job Applicants

Once you have sent the email request for a writing sample, there are several tips you can follow to ensure that you receive quality writing samples from job applicants.

How to Ask for a Writing Sample

• Be clear about what type of writing sample you are looking for (e.g., blog post, article, etc.).
• Provide detailed instructions on how to submit the writing sample.
• Set a realistic timeline for when the writing sample should be submitted.
• Be open to different writing styles and formats.

What to Look For in Writing Samples

When reviewing writing samples from job applicants, there are certain things you should look for to help you determine if the candidate is a good fit for the role. These include:

• Grammar, spelling, and punctuation accuracy.
• Clarity and readability of the writing.
• Ability to stay on topic and provide relevant information.
• Evidence of research and fact checking.
• Adherence to guidelines and instructions.

What Employers Should Know Before Requesting Writing Samples

Before requesting writing samples from job applicants, there are a few things employers should know.

Pros and Cons of Requesting Writing Samples

Requesting writing samples from job applicants has both pros and cons. On the one hand, it can give employers a better understanding of the candidate’s writing skills, which can be beneficial when making a hiring decision. On the other hand, it can take up time and resources to review the writing samples, which may not be worth the effort if the position does not require strong writing skills.

How to Use Writing Samples as Part of the Hiring Process

If you decide to request writing samples from job applicants, it’s important to use them as part of the hiring process. Writing samples can be used to assess a candidate’s writing skills, as well as their ability to think critically and communicate clearly. It’s also important to keep in mind that writing samples should only be used as one part of the overall evaluation process.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Requesting Writing Samples from Prospective Employees

When requesting writing samples from prospective employees, there are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.

Do’s

• Be clear and concise in your email request.
• Provide detailed instructions on what should be included in the writing sample.
• Set a realistic timeline for when the writing sample should be submitted.
• Use the writing sample as part of the overall evaluation process.
• Be mindful of the candidate’s time and efforts.

Don’ts

• Don’t use industry jargon or complex language in your email request.
• Don’t make the writing sample too long or complicated.
• Don’t expect the writing sample to be perfect.
• Don’t use the writing sample as the sole basis for making a hiring decision.
• Don’t forget to follow up with the candidate after they submit their writing sample.

Questions to Consider Before Requesting Writing Samples From Candidates

Before requesting writing samples from job applicants, it’s important to ask yourself a few questions to help you determine if it’s the right move for your company.

What Type of Writing Sample is Best Suited to My Needs?

The type of writing sample you request should depend on the position you are hiring for. For example, if you are hiring for a content writer position, you might want to request a blog post or article. If you are hiring for a copywriter position, you might want to request a sales letter or brochure.

How Can I Ensure I Receive Quality Writing Samples?

To ensure you receive quality writing samples from job applicants, it’s important to provide clear instructions on what should be included in the writing sample. You should also set a realistic timeline for when the writing sample should be submitted. Finally, it’s important to be mindful of the candidate’s time and efforts when requesting a writing sample.

Conclusion

Requesting a writing sample from job applicants is an important part of the hiring process. It can give employers insight into the candidate’s writing skills, as well as their ability to think critically and communicate clearly. To ensure you receive quality writing samples from job applicants, it’s important to craft an email request that is clear and concise, provide detailed instructions on what should be included in the writing sample, and be mindful of the candidate’s time and efforts.

By following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that you request a writing sample from job applicants in an effective and efficient manner.