I applied through an open call for freelance writers on social media. Eventually, I got a note back from an editor who requested more writing samples. Once I sent those through, I received a message from HR, who helped coordinate my paid trial with a different editor. Unlike others' experiences, I did not have a formal interview. All communication between the editor and me was via Slack during my 3-hour trial. The editor sent me details about the publication's standards and practices and offered three topics to choose from for my test article. She was available to answer questions and pleasant enough to interact with. Upon completing my test article, the editor informed me that I would hear back "within 2-3 business days." On the third day, I had still heard nothing, so I sent her a follow-up email. It bounced back. I was also locked out of the Slack channel (which was a bad sign). I reached out to HR and explained the situation; she let me know that she contacted the editor and asked her to get in touch with me. A couple more days pass, and at this point, I'm just wondering if I'll be paid for my trial. The editor's email is still inactive, and I reached out to HR again. HR assured me I'd be paid, and shortly after, I received a notification that Static Media would make a payment to my account. Good. Around the same time, the lead hiring manager reached out to tell me that I didn't get the job, which didn't surprise me. While I appreciate knowing where I stand, I didn't find the final editor's feedback helpful. (To the credit of my editor during the trial, she did glance through the piece and ask a question about a fact I sourced, which I answered in real time.) But I'll be blunt: online media is a race to the bottom, and outlets like this are in the lead. They're staunchly anti-AI, yet particular about the quality of their reheated content. It makes me wonder how many talented (yet desperate) writers have been taken for a ride by this company, only to be unceremoniously kicked out with a vague rejection. The sudden disappearance of my lead editor from the trial didn't give me much hope, either. For all I know, they're rearranging the chairs on the Titanic. High and sudden turnover is never a good sign. But to their credit, I was paid for my trial, as promised. And the HR specialist who communicated with me throughout the process was a gem. I hope she's able to someday bring her talents to another, more viable organization.