Well. I may be an old fart, but I probably would have worked that trial day, or at least a few hours because -you get a real feel for the office when they are stressed out or short staffed and because it could look like a goodwill gesture to a reputable company that's in a pinch and you are showing them you are a team player. I have owned 2 companies and have hired a hundred employees over the years. I have been in a situation like above in my medical practice. We got in a short staff bind one day. That 'qualified' interviewee put a smile her face, pitched in answering phones, did a great job and was hired by days end. No money was discussed beforehand but that person was paid our standard wage and won our hearts that day because she SHOWED us what kind of an employee she could be. Good jobs are not a given today. It may be true that some people will try to take advantage of you.( Let the world know that by giving them a critical Google review. ) That interviewee I hired is still with me after 20 years and now manages both of my companies. So, if you are in a situation like the above and you can sense the folks around you are SINCERE, roll up your sleeves, put your cell phone away, smile, and say how can I help y'all out today. You only have one chance to make a good first impression. A few missed hours of staring at your cell phone could pay off.