This week I am focusing on perfecting my online portfolio, and decided that others like me might not know where to start or what to consider first. After research, these are the steps I used and am proud of after finishing my online portfolio (check me out here)
1. Content Preparation
It is important to decide first what type of portfolio you want to make, what you want to include (photos, resume, work samples, etc.), and the best way that this information can be displayed.
2. Display Decisions
If you're like me and do not know how to code or create a website from scratch, check out online portfolio websites. Choose the template that works best for your content, offering well organized and easy to access information. Here is a list of 10 different online portfolio websites, many of them free, offering user friendly website templates to help you create your portfolio.
3. Add Photo and Contact Info
The third step is to make sure that your online portfolio has a photo to add a professional aspect and promote your personal brand. Update contact information for general contact and job opportunities, as well as linking to social media and other professional sites. This makes you seem easily accessable and personable; it also helps promote your professional brand.
4. Add Professional Content
This portion, the bulk of your online portfolio, needs to be the most organized and complete. Offer work samples that display your full potential as an employee, but do not add so many work samples that the important and best work is lost. Keep content relevant to your career, easy to understand and organized (by type, with sections, by tabs, etc.)
5. Add Unique Elements
Create an About Me page, add unique projects or passions, community service, personal and professional blogs, hobbies, etc. A portfolio should offer a good idea of who you are professionally, yes, but it should also give an idea of the things you care about and what type of person you are. This is not the most important aspect of an online portfolio, but gives the reader an idea of who is creating the content on your page. Content grabs attention, personality keeps it.
6. Update Your Portfolio
Once your portfolio is finished, you are not done forever. Continue to upload work as you create new and better content. This includes new resumes. Just like your career, your online profile should constantly be changing and updating.
Here are some other awesome sites offering online portfolio insight. Good Luck!
Online Portfolios for College Students
Portfolios for Aspiring PR Professionals
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