How can you create a professional portfolio in the nonprofit sector?

1 Identify your purpose and audience

Before you start creating your portfolio, you need to have a clear idea of why you are making it and who will see it. Your purpose and audience will determine what kind of portfolio you need, what content to include, and how to tailor it to their needs and expectations. For example, if you are applying for a specific job, you will want to highlight the skills and achievements that are relevant to that position and the organization. If you are seeking a general career advancement, you will want to showcase your versatility and potential across different areas and sectors.

2 Select your portfolio format

There are different ways to format your portfolio, depending on your preference, resources, and purpose. You can choose to create a physical portfolio, a digital portfolio, or a hybrid portfolio. A physical portfolio is a binder or folder that contains printed copies of your documents and samples. A digital portfolio is a website or an online platform that displays your documents and samples electronically. A hybrid portfolio is a combination of both, where you have a physical portfolio for in-person meetings and a digital portfolio for online applications and networking. Each format has its advantages and disadvantages, so you should weigh them carefully and choose the one that suits you best.

3 Gather your portfolio content

The content of your portfolio is the most important part, as it reflects your skills, experience, and impact in the nonprofit sector. To showcase your achievements, competencies, and values, you should include a variety of documents and samples. These could be a resume or CV summarizing your education and work history; a personalized cover letter; references from those who can vouch for your work performance and character; certificates and awards demonstrating your formal education, training, and recognition; work samples such as reports, proposals, newsletters, flyers, presentations, or videos; testimonials from clients, beneficiaries, colleagues, supervisors, donors; impact stories of how you made a difference in the lives of others or in the community through your work; and a professional development plan outlining your career goals, strengths, weaknesses, and action steps.

4 Organize your portfolio content

Once you have gathered your portfolio content, you need to organize it in a logical and coherent way. Begin by placing the most relevant and impressive content first, and the least relevant and impressive content last. Additionally, ensure the most recent and updated content is at the top and the oldest and outdated content is further down. Group similar content together, such as education, work experience, skills, etc., and use clear and consistent labels, such as titles, headings, subheadings, captions, etc. Finally, create a table of contents or a navigation menu that shows the structure and order of your content.

5 Present your portfolio effectively

The final step in presenting your portfolio is to ensure accuracy, completeness, and quality. Proofread your documents, test your links, and update your information. Additionally, customize your portfolio to the specific purpose and audience. Highlight the content that is most relevant and appealing to them, and remove the content that is not. When sharing your portfolio, be sure to follow the instructions and guidelines of the application process or use a professional and courteous email or message. Finally, be prepared to explain and discuss your portfolio in person or online with enthusiasm, confidence, and passion for your work and goals.

6 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?