FAQ: What Is a Work Sample? (Plus What To Include in One)

When you attend an interview, a prospective employer may ask you to provide or complete a work sample. A work sample is an opportunity to showcase your abilities and experience in your career field. Understanding the purpose and importance of a work sample can help you prepare an effective one for interviewers or hiring managers. In this article, we discuss why employers request work samples, which occupations use them, what the various types are and what to include in one.

What is a work sample?

A work sample is a finished product that a job candidate supplies to interviewers and hiring managers during the hiring process. The interviewer or hiring manager evaluates the work sample according to predetermined criteria to decide whether a candidate is a good fit for the company and the position. A work sample may also provide the candidate with an opportunity to assess whether the role aligns with their style, skills and values.

Why do employers request work samples?

An employer may ask you to provide a work sample to demonstrate your abilities and work style. Employers can use your work sample to evaluate your ability to produce finished products and assess the style of work you create. Looking at your work sample allows the employer to determine if you're a good fit for their role and distinguish you from other candidates. Having a collection of published or distinguished work may also convey your relevant experience and ability to produce desirable materials.

Which occupations use a work sample?

Many creative or artistic occupations use work samples during the interviewing and hiring process. Writers, photographers, media specialists, designers and artists produce work samples to show potential employers their skills and job qualifications. Employees and employers in these occupations can have varying styles and methods of production, and a candidate's work sample can help both them and the employer assess whether their styles and values align. Business occupations and administrative roles may also use work samples. When interviewing for an administrative position, you may provide a sample of a workplace report or other common documents. Business roles such as sales or management may require work samples like a sales report, mock sales pitch or report of increased efficiency during your time as a manager. Related: Guide To Submitting a Writing Sample

What are the types of work samples?

Here are some common types of work samples for various roles:

Portfolio

A portfolio is a way to present a collection of your best work to potential employers. It includes samples that showcase your skills, publications, finished products and experience. You may also display a resume, cover letter and letters of recommendation in your portfolio to provide hiring managers with information and an overview of your qualifications. The contents of a portfolio can also vary across occupations. Here are some common items in portfolios for a wide range of roles:

Photographs
Published articles
Paintings
Illustrations
Graphic designs
White pages
Marketing campaigns
Social media posts
Sales pitches

Performance test

A performance test is an exam in which an interviewer or employer provides a sample work assignment for the candidate to complete. Performance tests require an understanding of a company's expectations, style and work methods. The employer provides instructions, resources and a deadline for you to complete your performance test and show your ability to complete the tasks listed for their role. Related: 6 Most Common Types of Tests You Can Face During an Interview

What should you include in a work sample?

The contents of a work sample can vary depending on the type of occupation you're applying for and the type of sample you're providing. Here's a guide on what to include for different types of work samples:

Portfolio contents

A portfolio work sample typically includes a few previously produced or published products. When creating a portfolio, select examples that convey your skill level and capability to fulfill your desired role. Keeping your portfolio updated can help you maintain the attention of the hiring manager and ensure an accurate depiction of your abilities. If a job listing or an interviewer requests a specific number of samples, be sure to only provide that number of pieces and select the ones that best reflect your skills.

Performance assessment contents

A company's performance assessment typically provides a set of regulations and instructions. Try to follow these directions closely and include all the required elements in your final project. You may also customize the work sample to fit the style, tone and values of the organization to which you're applying. Putting in the effort to fulfill the organization's expectations may show the hiring manager your understanding of their operations and your ability to adapt to their style. Related: 17 Do's and Don'ts of Job Interview Assignments (With Examples)

Tips for providing work samples

Here are some tips you can use to better ensure that your work samples reflect your abilities:

Research the company: It's often helpful to research and understand the purpose, style and tone of the company to which you're applying. Matching your work samples to a company's specific values can show that you possess an understanding of the role and the ability to serve the organization's purpose.
Show a variety of work: When given the opportunity to provide a portfolio or multiple pieces of work, displaying a variety of formats and styles can show your range of skills. It can also demonstrate your ability to adapt your work to fit a specific purpose.
Explain your involvement: If your portfolio or other types of work samples contain pieces that were a collaborative effort, ensure you describe the role and tasks that you contributed. Being honest about your involvement shows integrity, and displaying collaborative efforts conveys teamwork skills.
Customize your work to the role: Customizing your portfolio, resume and assessments to fit the skills and requirements of the role can distinguish you as a candidate. Showing an understanding and ability to adapt to the company culture and style may convey to hiring managers you're a good fit for a role.