Some interviews these days, especially those for a high level position, involve completing a work assignment before you even get the job. Potential employers may ask you to complete a project such as sharing how you would develop a strategy for designing and implementing a new internet function or application. So this begs the question, will you complete the work assignment or not? An interesting dilemma indeed. And only you can answer the question on whether you want to spend the effort and time to share your knowledge and expertise with a prospective employer.

Here are some tips to ponder, if and when this work assignment arises during the course of an interview:

1. Showing your ability to address the central theme of the assignment can be the difference between getting hired or not.
2. Never give away “all” your knowledge on any subject matter. Provide only enough to demonstrate that you have the knowledge, expertise and experience to deliver on the subject matter.
3. Use solid presentation skills in your response as if you were a presenter at a conference.
4. Present your understanding of solid project management methodologies in formulating your reply to the assignment.
5. And, finally, keep your assignment short, concise and to the point. Don’t wander around the field.

Whether you decide to do the project or not, consider this possibility before the interview so you can reply with a well thought out answer. Good luck!