I was referred through a recruiter. After what I thought was a cordial 1:1 interview with one of the owners, I was given something I thought strange for an interview process: a freelance assignment in which I was to develop a public relations plan. In researching the target company, I came across a dead website, a string of failed products and no prior coverage. With little information to go on, I submitted a proposal draft outlining some top-line PR tools, media relations and digital efforts. Their feedback? Not only did the proposal basically stink, but I should also reevaluate my career in PR. I can laugh now, as that was many years ago. I am now a Senior Vice President and oversee communications efforts for a global technology company. I can also say - with confidence - that Spector & Associates will never get a taste of my large budget.