Spec work is work that a creative individual or company is asked to do in the speculation that it may or may not be bought, purchased, or commissioned.
Spec Work Story
About a year ago I was asked to bid on creating the design work for a magazine for a small liberal arts college. Not a problem. I provided the potential client with a digital portfolio of my previous graphic design work on magazines as well as other projects, and also provided a cost break down of what I would charge.
Then I get a further phonecall from the college. We really like your work, they say, but we'd like to see a 4-page mock up of what our magazine would look like if you redesigned it. At this point, my spidey sense is tingling and I politely agree to the request as long as they reimburse me for my time. We consider this an "audition", I am told, and they will not pay for my services. This is spec work. Thanks, but no thanks, was my reply. As a design professional I work for companies and individuals who value my time, my work, and my experience.
Spec Work Analogy
Here's my point of view. If you're a lawyer, a client doesn't come to you and say, I want you to write my will. When it's done and if I like it, I'll pay for it. In fact, most lawyers will ask you for a reatiner, or upfront payment, before beiginning work. As a creative professional I am not jumping through hoops for a job without remuneration. I have an art degree and 15 years experience in advertising and design. If a client can't look at my graphic design style and the scope of my work and put their trust in my services, they are not a client I want to do business with.
Say No to Spec Work
This position is not unique or weird in the graphic design industry, in fact it is a movement that many design professionals are promoting as a way of preserving the integrity of our business. It communicates to the business world that artists need to be taken seriously.
So...the next time a potential client asks you as a visual artist or graphic designer to "audition" for a job...just say no.
Mary Rayme - Mary Rayme is a graphic designer and arts educator with a BFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore.
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