What is a writing sample?

Question

I applied for a social service job on line. I submitted my resume and the job emailed me back and asked me to submit a writing sample. What would an employer be looking for in a job writing sample. Any free employment writing sample web site that I could go to? Anyone have a personal sample they could show me, give me an idea of how this is done. I 've never had a job ask for this.

Answer 1

Don't fall for it. It's to get what they call a "Person-alysis test". F-em, it's BS, so, run fast, run far and never look back.

Answer 2

I'm not sure.

I looked it up but all I could find was stuff about specific writing jobs. If you're applying for a social service job I'm not sure why they would need a writing sample.

http://lioncubjobsearch.blogspot.com/200...

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/con...

That's pretty much all I could find.

Answer 3

There are two types of writing samples:

1.  Formal writings which may involve articles, general transmittal correspondence, recipes, etc.  All of which are generally "typed" submissions.

2.  Handwritten samples with such sufficiency in order to provide graphological tips.

The main reason for item #1, is an evaluation of your general writing skills.  While the main reason for item #2 is to determine general character traits, i.e., nervousness, honesty, mental health, etc.  Graphological samples are currently required by Peugeot the French auto maker as part of the employee evaluation.

Good luck!

Answer 4

In a social service job, you are probably writing notes about clients in their records, perhaps while visiting their homes or work sites.  Instead of carrying a computer, you are expected to hand write these notes. The organization wants to see how clearly you write.