Should I include a portfolio or examples of my work with my resume?
FAQ: Should I Include a Portfolio or Examples of My Work with My Resume?
Including a portfolio or examples of your work with your resume can significantly enhance your job application, particularly if you are in a creative or technical field. Here are some key points to consider:
Why Include a Portfolio?
- Showcase Your Skills: A portfolio serves as a visual representation of your skills, expertise, and accomplishments. It offers prospective employers a concrete example of what you can deliver.
- Stand Out from the Crowd: With competition for job positions increasing, an impressive portfolio can make your application stand out. It’s a great way to highlight your unique abilities and past achievements.
- Build Credibility: Providing examples of your previous work can build credibility and trust, showing potential employers that you are capable of producing quality work.
How to Include a Portfolio
- Digital and Online Portfolios
- Personal Website: Create a personal website with a dedicated portfolio section. Tools like WordPress make it easy to build and manage an online portfolio.
- LinkedIn: Utilize LinkedIn’s portfolio feature to add multimedia elements to your profile. This can quickly attract the attention of recruiters and hiring managers who browse through LinkedIn profiles.
- Platforms:
- For designers: Behance or Dribbble
- For writers: Medium or personal blog
- For developers: GitHub or a dedicated project site
- PDF Portfolio
- Include a PDF version of your portfolio when applying by email or through job portals. Ensure it is well-organized and showcases your best work.
Best Practices for Including a Portfolio
- Relevance: Tailor your portfolio to the specific job you are applying for by including work that is most relevant to the position.
- Quality over Quantity: Highlight your best work rather than everything you’ve ever done. A few outstanding pieces will have a stronger impact than many mediocre ones.
- Clarity and Professionalism: Make sure your portfolio is easy to navigate, visually appealing, and free from errors.
When to Exclude a Portfolio
- Not Applicable: If you are applying for a role where a portfolio is not relevant (e.g., administrative or clerical positions), it might not be necessary.
- Confidential Work: Avoid including projects that you’ve worked on which are confidential or proprietary unless you have explicit permission to share them.
Conclusion
Including a portfolio or examples of your work with your resume is highly recommended for fields where visual or demonstrable skills are essential. It can significantly boost your chances of landing an interview and showcase your abilities in a compelling and professional manner. Make sure your portfolio is accessible, relevant, and highlights the best examples of your work.
