Career Trailblazer

How to Make a Great Portfolio for Getting Jobs

It doesn’t matter what profession or career you are in, whether you are in sales, graphic designs, web development or management, having a great portfolio for an interview or presentation can make you stand out from all the other potential candidates and have winning results in getting jobs. While you’re answering the interview questions, your portfolio allows you to quickly pull out prime samples of your work and accomplishments. Having concrete evidence shows that you have a solid proven record of success.

What type of portfolio should you use? What should you include in your portfolio? How should you organize the content in your portfolio?

Get the best type of portfolio that you can afford that will present your samples in a professional manner and is easy to use in your presentation. I use a leather binder that I insert with clear sleeves to keep my samples clean and easy to turn while I’m talking to the interviewer. If you’re a graphic designer or artist you may want to get a leather portfolio large enough to hold your samples. Many art and office supply stores sell portfolio and business binders. If you’re getting a very large portfolio, make sure it has a good handle, one that won’t break easily from wear and tear.

Here’s a list of samples to keep in your portfolio:

1. Quality work samples. Include your best work samples that show you have the skills and will provide the company with quality work. Only use your best samples, usually 3 to 5 will do. Present how you accomplished creating each one, how it improved operations or helped reach a business goal.
2. Letter of recommendation. Any letters of recommendation you have received from past teachers, employers and clients.
3. Testimonials. Print out past emails containing testimonials about your work and accomplishments from your coworkers, bosses, and clients.
4. Certifications. Show copies of any special certifications you may have obtained. Discuss how you dedicated your time and effort to get the education or special training to improve your skills and knowledge.
5. Awards. Keep copies of any awards or recognition certificates you may have received. This gives you the opportunity to discuss your work and why you received the award or honor.

Organize your samples in an order of how you plan to present your career or job experience. Start with one of your best samples first to capture their interest, think of it as a five minute presentation or elevator sales pitch. Follow with more supporting samples that build on that interest and then finish with your top sample to leave them with something to remember. People always remember the last sample you show them.

Periodically update the samples in your portfolio; ensure that it targets the jobs and positions you are seeking. If your portfolio binder or case is looking worn or the handle is broken, go and replace it. You want to present a good first and lasting impression.

The job market is extremely competitive and full of candidates that all look alike. A portfolio will give you an edge in the market, differentiate you from the crowd, proves that you are a successful person and will leave a lasting impression that can help you win the job.

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