Portfolios are commonly used by students interested in pursuing careers in the arts, communications, education, and technology. However, anyone can assemble a portfolio to display their work and support their candidacy. The format (online or physical) and information included in a portfolio differs based on the industry in which you are applying and personal preference. A portfolio can be used during the interview to demonstrate examples of work you have done, or a link can be sent at the time of your application.
For information about professional portfolios check out the drop downs below!
A physical, printed portfolio can be helpful to have in some fields like art and design. For more information on compiling a physical portfolio, see Items to Include in a Paper Portfolio.
An online portfolio can be a dynamic space to showcase your professional presence. Online portfolios typically include details about your skills and achievements and can include a reflective element (blog posts, writing samples) as well as examples of your work.
Read more on why creating an online portfolio can be beneficial in establishing your professional presence online!
The University Writing Center can help with creating or revising text-based digital content. All consultations are one-on-one with a trained peer consultant, collaborative, and can last up to 45-minutes. Although any consultant can help with clarity and organization, the center does have specialists who have expertise in digital platforms. The UWC helps students to:
- brainstorm content
- consider the audience and purpose of their project
- clarify ideas
- make technical and global revisions
Here are some links to help you get started:
Want to create your portfolio but aren't sure how to get started? Check out these resources to learn about the best tools for building your page and content to include:
The sites below are all free options for creating and hosting your online portfolio. For help deciding which web builder to use, check out DigiComm's comparison chart and quiz.
- Weebly
- Wix
- About Me
- LinkedIn Portfolio Feature
- (Don't have a LinkedIn account? Now's the time to learn more and create one)
Check YouTube for additional tutorial videos on these sites
Once you’ve created a portfolio, think about how to make it more appealing or effective.
- Always consider your audience and tailor your portfolio’s content, layout, navigation, and visual style to communicate appropriately with that intended group.
- If creating an online portfolio, monitor your content to make sure that links aren't broken, documents are opening, and information is up to date.
- Maintain consistent visual design (font, colors, heading style, etc.).
- Be mindful of copyright status; don’t post material that isn't yours. The portfolio is intended to showcase your work.
- Use personal photos mindfully by considering your audience and the appropriate use of photos in your portfolio. Make sure that you’re not violating others’ right to privacy. It can be helpful to ask permission if they will be included in pictures in your portfolio. Also consider whether photos of you could lead to possible discrimination. Ask yourself whether the person reading through the portfolio really needs a photo of you in each situation.
- If you’re putting your portfolio online, realize that it is accessible to the public. If you’re including a resume, think about whether you want your address and phone number published. If not you can always upload an alternate version of the document with this information removed.
- Refer to our guidelines for maintaining a professional online image as well.
- Once you’ve created your portfolio, promote it! Mention it in your resume, on your LinkedIn profile, or in your cover letter. Provide a way for individuals to access it by providing a link or by saying you will be happy to share printed samples of your work in an interview.
