How do you prepare a portfolio of your visual merchandising work for an interview?

1 Choose your format

The first step is to decide how you want to present your portfolio. You can choose between a physical or a digital format, or a combination of both. A physical portfolio is a binder, folder, or book that contains printed copies of your work, such as photos, sketches, mood boards, floor plans, and testimonials. A digital portfolio is a website, blog, or online platform that showcases your work in a dynamic and interactive way, such as videos, slideshows, animations, and links. A combination portfolio is a mix of both formats, such as a printed book with a QR code or a USB drive that leads to your online portfolio. The format you choose depends on your preference, budget, and the expectations of the employer.

2 Select your projects

The next step is to select the projects that you want to include in your portfolio. You should choose the projects that best represent your visual merchandising skills, creativity, and achievements. You should also consider the relevance of the projects to the job you are applying for, and the diversity of the projects to show your versatility and adaptability. You can include projects from different types of retail settings, such as department stores, boutiques, pop-ups, or windows. You can also include projects from different stages of your career, such as internships, freelance work, or previous jobs. However, you should avoid including too many projects that might overwhelm or bore the employer. A good rule of thumb is to include between 10 and 15 projects that showcase your best work.

3 Organize your content

The third step is to organize your content in a logical and coherent way. You should arrange your projects in a chronological or thematic order, depending on what makes more sense for your portfolio. You should also label each project with a title, date, location, and brief description. You should explain the objective, concept, and process of each project, as well as the results and feedback. You should also highlight your role and responsibilities in each project, especially if you worked in a team or with a client. You should use clear and concise language that showcases your communication and storytelling skills.

4 Design your layout

The fourth step is to design your layout in a visually appealing and professional way. You should use a consistent and appropriate style, font, color, and format throughout your portfolio. You should also use high-quality images and videos that capture the details and impact of your work. You should also leave some white space and margins to avoid clutter and enhance readability. You should also proofread and edit your portfolio to eliminate any errors or typos. You should also test your portfolio to make sure it works properly and looks good on different devices and platforms.

5 Update your portfolio

The final step is to update your portfolio regularly to keep it fresh and relevant. You should add new projects that reflect your current skills, achievements, and interests. You should also remove old or outdated projects that no longer represent your style or goals. You should also review your portfolio before each interview to tailor it to the specific job and employer. You should also ask for feedback from other professionals or mentors to improve your portfolio and learn from their insights.

A portfolio of your visual merchandising work is a valuable asset that can help you land your dream job. By following these tips, you can prepare a portfolio that showcases your talent, passion, and potential.

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?