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Everything You Need To Know About Portfolios
What they are, why they are essential, and how to make one
By Diana Ho
What is a Portfolio?
Have you ever been turned away from a job because you lack experience?
If so, one of the best ways to prove your experience is by creating a
portfolio of your work.
What is a Portfolio?
Portfolios serve as a representation of your experience, qualifications,
and commitment to your profession. It can include projects you've
worked on, computer skills you're competent in, awards you've
won, and any recognition received. In short, it is a collection of
your greatest accomplishments.
Why Every Student Should Create a Portfolio
Why Every Student Should Create a Portfolio?
Although portfolios take time and effort to create, they are essential to every working professional. If you want to really impress employers and stand out during interviews, a portfolio is an effective tool in doing so.
“By creating a portfolio, applicants demonstrate they are genuinely interested and committed to their work,” said Nancy Smith, recruiting director for NBC Studios.
Qualifications can easily be explained in words, but physical examples help support your claims. Portfolios help solidify your chances of landing the job.
5 Easy Steps to Create an Effective Portfolio
1. Invest in the Right Materials: Start by purchasing
a quality, leather bound portfolio case, sleeve holders, and dividers.
At a total cost of $40 to $50, this is a great investment in your future.
2. Include an Updated Resume: Your resume should
have a complete list of your latest work experience and accomplishments.
When you describe your experiences make sure to start with action
words, such as “researched” or “created.”
3. Use a Table of Contents: This helps organize your portfolio work. There are several ways you can do this: either by discipline or deliverable type. The discipline option categorizes your work by topics like “Marketing” and “Advertising.” The deliverable type option groups your work into sections, such as “Proposals” and “Brochures.”
4. Provide Examples of Expertise: Entries should be accompanied by a title that matches your table of contents and brief caption that states the importance of the piece. Be concise and to the point.
Include anything that demonstrates your expertise. This includes:
- Letters of recommendation from past employers
- Transcripts
- Academic awards
- Published articles
- Flyers
- Brochures
- Formal reports
- Art work
- Copies of reviews/appraisals of your work
5. Show Your Range: Don't be afraid to show your range of talents. Employers like to see a diversified portfolio. Even if you don't think the project is relative to the job you are applying for, it may display skills that the company needs.