How many ads do you skim that ask for writing samples?  Almost all of them, right?  I’ve posted before about not sending freelance writing samples and why.  Read: Never Send a Potential Client “Writing Samples”.
But I wonder if I should re-think this position.  I personally believe if you have an online portfolio with writing samples included, this should suffice as to whether or not you can write well.  I’m also thinking there may be another way to let the client see your work, while protecting it at the same time. …

If you frequent many job boards for freelance writers you’ve seen plenty of ads wanting to see samples of your work. Never send these out. More than likely this is simply a ploy to get a lot of content for free.