The Case for Work Trials

Exploring how work trials help developers and startups find the right fit before making long-term commitments. Here’s why testing the waters can lead to stronger partnerships and better decisions.

The Case for Work Trials
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I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to trial—a project, a client, or even a more full-time role. Recently, I’ve started formalizing some thoughts around work trials and how they can be integrated into client onboarding, hiring processes, and even business partnerships.

What Are Work Trials?

Work trials are short-term projects that let you and a potential partner or employer see how things work in practice. They’re usually paid engagements that provide a clear view of what collaboration might look like. Nothing gives you more insight into a working relationship than actually working together.
 

Why They Matter

  1. Low-Risk Evaluation: Both parties can test the waters without jumping into a long-term commitment.
  1. Real-World Insights: Unlike resumes or interviews, work trials offer a hands-on experience that shows how someone performs.
  1. Better Decision-Making: After a trial, both sides have a clearer picture of whether to move forward, reducing the chances of a poor fit.

How to Structure Work Trials

Here are a few resources I found useful when thinking about organizing work trials, whether for interviews, client onboarding, or cofounder matching:
 
Work trials help cut through uncertainty. Whether you’re a developer or a startup founder, they offer a practical way to test partnerships before committing. How do you incorporate work trials into your business? Send me a note.
 

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Written by

Lola
Lola

Lola is the founder of Lunch Pail Labs. She enjoys discussing product, SaaS integrations, and running a business. Feel free to connect with her on Twitter or LinkedIn.