I just interviewed with a company via the phone. It is for UX position. The president of the company has explained current product and design flaws with it. She has then asked me following: I will send you an email requesting to see a sample design of how you would approach a problem and see if our design visions align and perhaps also design a promo piece for an upcoming event... I have been asked that before, and I understand in certain situation it is an important part of the hiring process to see. However, I have presented my work beforehand so my "design sense" should easily be gathered from my portfolio and usually when asked to do a project it is usually a mock up project not an actual existing product redesign. She told me I would be compensated for the work and she is not expecting it for free.....so I should give her a quote before I begin....my concerns are: 1. why would you pay me for a mock up if it's part of the interview? 2. does it seem like potentially she can end up using those designs in her actual products....3. should i be weary of the notion that she is just trying to find a solution for her immediate issues with the product and has no actual intention of hiring me, if so, how can I proceed without offending her with my "unjust feelings" and thus losing a potential job?
FOLLOW UP: I got paid and landed a freelance gig with them instead.