Sample of writing for job application - include references ala academic work?

quad_red

Hi all,

A quick bit of advice. As part of a job application, I have been asked to submit a piece of work demonstrating my writing ability. The piece can be between 1,000 and 5,000 words, on any topic. It can be something I did in college or something I have done in work.

Now, I've chosen to right something especially for this. Mainly because my college stuff is almost ten years old now (and looks very very raw) and I am unable to use any stuff from my existing workplace (non disclosure agreements).

The piece I've written is on a topic related to my current job. Basically, a review of a well known policy, detailing main supporting arguments and the main critical arguments.

Now - it's short. Less than 2,000 words. I am making clear in the article that this is a review of other peoples opinions and works. I am not plagiarizing type but I am obviously using opinions of other writers (and making clear that critics/supporters believe etc.).

I believe this is a technical exercise to ascertain the level of my written communication abilities and the HR person I spoke to strongly hinted that the topic is largely irrelevant.

Hence - should I mark this up with proper references etc. like a piece of academic work or submit it as an informal briefing report (as I regularly do in my current work).

Any advice appreciated.

Regards,
Quad

Broxi_Bear_Eire

This bit highlighted here makes me lean towards putting all reference points in place.

I believe this is a technical exercise to ascertain the level of my written communication abilities

Anytime I have been asked to submit a written piece. I have tended too err on the side of caution and made sure all proper reference points are put in place, if nothing else it shows believe in the detail of your work.

Just my twopence worth