How can you best present your graphic communication portfolio to potential employers?

1 Choose your best work

The first step to creating a great portfolio is to select your best work that demonstrates your skills, creativity, and personality. You don't need to include everything you have ever done, but rather focus on the projects that are relevant to the job you are applying for, or that reflect your style and vision. Aim for quality over quantity, and make sure your work is up to date and consistent.

2 Organize your portfolio

Once you have chosen your best work, you need to organize it in a logical and appealing way. You can group your projects by category, such as branding, web design, illustration, etc., or by client, industry, or theme. You can also use a chronological order, but make sure to put your most recent and impressive work first. For each project, provide a brief description of the context, objectives, challenges, and results, and highlight your role and contribution.

3 Create an online portfolio

An online portfolio is a must-have for any graphic communication professional, as it allows you to reach a wider audience and showcase your work in a dynamic and interactive way. You can use a platform like Behance, Dribbble, or Squarespace to create your own website, or you can build it from scratch using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Whatever you choose, make sure your online portfolio is easy to navigate, responsive, and fast-loading. You can also add some features like a blog, a contact form, or a resume to make it more engaging and personal.

4 Prepare a print portfolio

Even though most employers will look at your online portfolio first, you should also have a print portfolio ready for face-to-face interviews or meetings. A print portfolio is a physical representation of your work, and it can help you make a lasting impression and demonstrate your attention to detail and quality. You can use a portfolio case, a binder, or a book to display your work, and choose a size and format that suits your style and budget. You should also print some business cards with your name, contact information, and website URL.

5 Update and customize your portfolio

Your portfolio is not a static document, but a living and evolving showcase of your work. You should update it regularly with new projects, feedback, and achievements, and remove any outdated or irrelevant work. You should also customize your portfolio for each job or client you are applying for, and highlight the work that matches their needs, expectations, and preferences. You can also tailor your portfolio to different media and platforms, such as social media, email, or PDF.

6 Promote your portfolio

The last step to presenting your graphic communication portfolio is to promote it and make it visible to potential employers. You can use social media, blogs, newsletters, or online communities to share your work and network with other professionals and clients. You can also participate in contests, awards, or exhibitions to showcase your work and gain recognition and exposure. You should also ask for feedback, testimonials, or referrals from your previous clients, colleagues, or mentors, and use them to improve your portfolio and reputation.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?