Module 03: Job Search
3.8 Portfolio
Your resume and cover letters are the primary tools you’ll create to demonstrate that you are a strong candidate for the target position. If you want to stand out even more to employers, you may also want to consider creating a portfolio. In certain fields portfolios are more common than others, so be sure to do your research to determine if your field is one of them.
Here are some tips that will help you build a compelling portfolio:
- Present your portfolio in a binder. Keep it neat and use plastic report covers to protect your documents.
- Showcase your personality. Format your portfolio in a way that reflects who you are as a professional.
- Include a table of contents. This will allow you to quickly flip to relevant documents.
- Introduce your portfolio during the interview. Bring it up in the context of the conversation, but make sure you ask if there is time to show it.
- Keep your portfolio updated and targeted to the job and employer. You never know when you might need it.
- Include experience and reflections from your extra-curricular activities, global citizenship & equity experiences, field placements, co-op, and academic learning.
Portfolio Materials to Consider Including
- Certificates
- Publications
- News Articles
- Organizational Charts
- Records
- Degrees
- Training Certificates
- Work Samples
- Writing Samples
- Evaluations
- Awards
- Performance indicators
- Photos
- Transcripts
- Company Information
- Reference Letters
- Thank You Letters
Digital Portfolio
An online portfolio is a curated electronic version of what is described above. The benefit of posting a portfolio online is that it gives employers access to peruse your accomplishments at a time convenient to them.
Examples of sites offering online portfolios:
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com
- Weebly: weebly.com
- Wix: www.wix.com
- Behance: https://www.behance.net/
- Format: https://www.format.com/
- Coroflot: https://www.coroflot.com/
- Carbonmade: https://carbonmade.com/
- WordPress: https://wordpress.com/