Doing Test Runs for Buyers without Payment

[clstump3]

I offer virtual assistant services and I've had a few buyers reach out to me asking to do a test run project for them. They don't want to pay for the test run, but will hire me after that if they like what I do. I, personally, think that this is working for free and I should charge them for an hour's work. But I'm wondering what other sellers' thoughts are. Do you ever do a test run for someone without them paying you? Thanks for any feedback you can offer!

[melanielm]

Don't work for free. 'Test run' is another term for 'getting you to work for free with no intention of ever paying.' Why would they make an order if they don't have to? Your time, effort, and skill is worth compensation.

[max3dmodel]

If you are good at something and trust your skills, don't do it for free.