Potential Employee Wants Me To Submit Code

Potential Employee Wants Me to Submit Code: Red Flags and Best Practices

So, a potential employee wants you to submit code as part of the interview process. This is a common practice, but it's crucial to approach it cautiously. This article will guide you through the potential red flags, best practices for handling this request, and how to protect your intellectual property while assessing the candidate's skills. This situation requires careful consideration to ensure a fair and secure process for both you and the applicant.

Why They Might Ask for Your Code

There are legitimate reasons why a company might ask for code samples. They want to assess your:

• Technical skills: This is the primary reason. Seeing your code allows them to evaluate your coding style, problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in specific programming languages or frameworks.
• Problem-solving approach: How you structure your code, handle errors, and implement solutions reveals your problem-solving methodology.
• Coding style and best practices: Clean, well-documented code is a sign of a meticulous and professional developer.
• Experience with specific technologies: They might be looking for someone with experience in a particular technology stack.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

However, there are several red flags you should be aware of:

• Unclear expectations: If the request lacks specifics about the project, the required technologies, or the expected outcome, it's a warning sign. A reputable company will provide clear guidelines.
• Excessive work: Requesting a large, complex project for free is unethical. A short coding challenge or a review of existing code is more appropriate.
• Lack of compensation: Unless it's a clearly defined paid assignment (e.g., a paid coding test), asking for code without compensation is a major red flag. Your time and expertise are valuable.
• Poor communication: If the communication is unprofessional or unclear, it might indicate a lack of organization within the company.
• Suspiciously vague project details: Be wary of projects that seem overly broad or lack a defined purpose. This could signal an attempt to obtain your code for their own use.

Best Practices for Handling the Request

Here’s how to navigate this situation professionally and protect your interests:

• Clarify the requirements: Ask detailed questions about the project scope, technologies involved, expected time commitment, and whether the code will be used for anything beyond the assessment. Get everything in writing.
• Negotiate the terms: If it's a significant project, consider negotiating compensation or a clear understanding of how the code will be used (and whether it will be attributed to you).
• Protect your intellectual property: If you decide to proceed, consider using a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) to protect your code's ownership and prevent unauthorized use.
• Use a code repository: Upload your code to a private repository like GitHub or GitLab to maintain version control and demonstrate your work in a structured way. This also allows you to share access selectively.
• Review your existing work: Instead of creating something new, consider sharing previously developed projects that showcase your skills and align with the requirements. This avoids creating new code that could be exploited.
• Assess the company's reputation: Research the company thoroughly. Check online reviews and look for any negative feedback regarding their hiring practices.

Conclusion

While providing code samples can be a beneficial part of the interview process, always prioritize your intellectual property and assess the situation carefully. By following these best practices and recognizing potential red flags, you can navigate this process effectively, protecting your work while showcasing your skills to prospective employers. Remember, a reputable company will value your time and expertise and treat you fairly throughout the process.