Design Tasks(Or Theft?!)

Recently, I experienced the frustration of being ghosted after submitting a design task.

In the design world, creativity and innovation are crucial. Yet, job applications often involve “design tasks” that pose risks, including IP theft and ghosting.

The Risk of Design Tasks:

Design tasks assess your skills in real-world scenarios. However, misuse is common. Imagine investing time and effort into a design task, only to see your ideas used without credit. This scenario, unfortunately, happens too often, leading to intellectual property (IP) theft.

Protecting Your Intellectual Property

Our creative work is invaluable. To protect it during job applications:

1. Understand the Terms: Clarify ownership of submitted work.

2. Documentation: Keep records of your design process.

3. NDAs : Request a non-disclosure agreement for tasks involving innovative concepts.

4. Watermark Your Work: Assert ownership without compromising presentation.

The Frustration of Being Ghosted

Being ghosted after submitting a design task is disheartening. It’s not just about wasted effort but also a profound lack of respect for your professional commitment. The silence leaves you questioning your worth and doubting your skills, eroding your trust in potential employers.

Conclusion: Advocating for Ethical Practices

As designers, we must advocate for ethical practices. Companies should respect our creative work and maintain transparency during the hiring process. By sharing our experiences and supporting one another, we can drive change and ensure our contributions are valued and protected.