Gone are the days when your resume was your only calling card in a job search. Today, employers expect you to bring more to the table, including samples of your work. This is where having a digital portfolio comes in.
How you build your online portfolio can make or break your chances of getting noticed in your field. That is why it makes perfect sense if you are wondering how to make a portfolio full of wow. And here are just a few tips to help you create an online portfolio worth bragging about.
Showcase Your Greatest Work First
Nothing matters to a stranger like the first impression. So, your portfolio should reflect your most important work first. When visitors see something that will captivate their attention at first glance, they are likely to spend more time scrolling through your portfolio.
You must label each project appropriately to make it easy for users to look around your site. Most professional portfolios also have a brief description of each project. You can also include a list of the tools you used for each work completed.
Add a Bio
You cannot create a personalized portfolio without a bio that will introduce your users to your interests, background, and capabilities. This will stand out among other job applicants and be more noticeable for interviewers.
When writing your bio, keep it brief but capture the most critical aspects about yourself. Using about 200 words or less could be ideal. Only highlight your most impressive accomplishments. If possible, include links to personal projects or work samples. This way, potential employers can learn more about your work without having to spend too much time on your social media platforms.
Use Professional Photos
Potential clients want not only to read about what you can do but to actually see it. Whether you’re looking for freelance work or a full-time job at a design studio, include images of your past work in your portfolio. If possible, get a professional photographer to shoot these photos.Â
Your photos should also be scannable so that Google can crawl them and they can be found on search engines. If your budget is so tight that you can’t afford to invest in professional photography, take your photos using a DSLR camera, phone camera, or tablet camera. Then edit them with free online photo editing softwares.
Keep It Consistent in Format and Color Scheme
While you may be tempted to create different presentations for different clients, you should strive to keep your portfolio consistent in format and color scheme. It shows confidence, which is good when you’re trying to land a new client.
Going overboard with multiple colors and complex graphics will distract potential viewers from what’s most important—your work. Stick with a simple color scheme. Finally, make sure there’s enough room around each image not to be buried in chaos.
Get Feedback from Friends, Family, Colleagues
Sometimes, we all need a second opinion, especially when it comes to our work. Don’t be afraid to ask people you trust for feedback on your portfolio. They may not be able to tell you why something doesn’t work, but their perspectives are worth heeding.
If you don’t have any friends and family to offer their opinions, reach out to online groups. Reddit and Quora are two of many communities where job-seekers can find others looking for input on resumes or portfolios.
Avoid Overcrowding Your Site with Non-Work Projects
Your online portfolio isn’t meant to be a catch-all for every extra project. Non-work projects might work well to impress your friends but may send potential clients in the opposite direction. If you have created some projects just for fun, store them in your other accounts away from your professional site.
Look at What Works for Others in Your Industry
Find inspiration by following other professionals who’ve achieved success in your industry and look at what they’re doing. Observe how they present themselves and interact with their customers. Leverage their expertise by borrowing ideas you like, asking questions to learn more about their processes, or even engaging them to offer advice.
Think About Current Trends in the Job Market
Think about what employers in your field are currently looking for. Most jobs are advertised in more than one place. So, look at job listings, company websites, and bulletin boards for trends.
Pay attention to skills employers or clients list as must-haves, preferred, or desired. These may be a good indicator of what you should include in your portfolio.
Final Word
Building a portfolio is essential as it shows potential employers what you’re capable of. It can be a critical step in helping you land that first job. Create an online portfolio worth bragging about by following these tips and using your favorite tools. Most importantly, always include a link to your portfolio on your resume.
