By: Colleen Gill
Whether you are pitching a client or applying for a job, sharing your work is key, and a portfolio is an excellent option. Below are five simple guidelines for you to consider when designing a digital portfolio.
1. The Headline: Include a headline that encapsulates your mission, that conveys in a phrase, who or what viewers are learning about, “Providing expertise in content writing and project coordinating…”
2. The Pitch Statement: Provide a short summary that will entice your viewers’ curiosity by sparking an interest. This should relate to the headline and explain the objective of the presentation, giving three to five key takeaways. For example, if you are using the portfolio on an interview, this would be similar to the career profile section on a resume.
3. Your Bio: The bio is your signature of the portfolio. Keep it short, factual, and convenient. Providing a graphic and a link to your website or blog, will seal your digital presence for all viewers.
4. Putting It All Together: If you are new to creating digital portfolios, you have options. PowerPoint is easy to use, as well as versatile – you can create complex or basic presentations that take little time and they are easy to share via email Templates are another option that gives your presentation that professional look. Make sure when choosing a template, you convey a theme that fits your field; especially, if you are sharing your work to prospective clients or future employers. Some popular templates to check out:
For career portfolios, check out:
For general work showcase, check out:
5. Always test your product! Think of the end user at all times, and place functionality before the bells and whistles. Check the image load times and make sure the website functions properly on every browser, as well as on different platforms.
Remember, create your portfolio for your clients. Try not to over-impress and stick to the objective you intend to deliver. By doing this, you will stand out, rather than the portfolio.
