I started building my portfolio during my very first student internship. I made sure to keep every blurb, press release and report that I created. Much like my career, my portfolio constantly evolves and I make sure to work on it even when I’m not searching for work. The trick to keeping your portfolio organized and relevant is to have a master portfolio where you keep all samples of your work. This way you can select the pieces that best suit the position that you're interviewing for.
What should be included in your portfolio?
Really any work samples relevant to your field. If you work in PR this includes writing samples, campaigns, media relation activities, etc. You can also add samples of your volunteer work, school projects and transcripts.
Really any work samples relevant to your field. If you work in PR this includes writing samples, campaigns, media relation activities, etc. You can also add samples of your volunteer work, school projects and transcripts.
There are many ways to assemble your portfolio. I like to switch it up every once in a while with new sections and themes. However, the best advice that I can give you is be creative because your career portfolio should reflect your personality.
During the interview, use your portfolio to support your answers. For example if the interviewer asks : "How do you prepare before taking on a big project?" you can give your explanation all while giving them concrete samples of work plans and strategies. Having these examples handy will likely make you more confident during the interview.
I would love to hear about your working portfolio!
Excellent post. Spending fifteen years of my life as a headhunter - I know the first step to getting hired is setting yourself apart from the masses. It may not get you the job, but it'll get you in the game.
ReplyDeleteIf I may make a suggestion on your portfolio concept. A nice addition would be to include a synopsis on what you were trying to accomplish with your included pieces; along with your game plan you used to get there. This will not only show the result, but also your methodology, a methodology you would use when working for the interviewer.
It's kind of like showing your work in school. And we all thought that was an unnecessary bother. Little did we know.
Great point! Thanks for the tip.
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