What do you do if your construction skills and experience aren't reflected in your portfolio?

1 Assess your skills

The first step to creating a portfolio is to identify your core skills and areas of expertise. Think about the types of projects you have worked on, the tasks you have performed, and the tools and materials you have used. You can also take online assessments or quizzes to measure your proficiency in specific skills, such as carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work. Write down your skills and rank them according to your confidence and competence levels.

2 Collect your work samples

The next step is to gather evidence of your skills and experience. Work samples are tangible examples of your work that show your quality, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. They can include photos, videos, sketches, diagrams, plans, certificates, or testimonials. Try to collect as many work samples as possible, but focus on the ones that are relevant to your target audience and showcase your best work. If you don't have many work samples, you can create some by doing volunteer work, taking on small projects, or participating in competitions or challenges.

3 Organize your portfolio

The third step is to organize your portfolio in a way that is easy to navigate, understand, and present. You can use a digital platform, such as a website, a blog, or a social media account, or a physical format, such as a binder, a folder, or a booklet. Choose a format that suits your style, budget, and preferences. Then, arrange your work samples into categories or sections based on your skills, projects, or themes. For each work sample, include a brief description, the date, the context, the outcome, and the feedback you received.

4 Highlight your achievements

The fourth step is to highlight your achievements and accomplishments in your portfolio. Achievements are measurable results that show the impact and value of your work. They can include numbers, percentages, awards, recognitions, or testimonials. For example, you can mention how much time, money, or materials you saved, how many clients or customers you served, or how many positive reviews or ratings you received. Use action verbs and specific details to describe your achievements and show how you contributed to the success of the project.

5 Update your portfolio

The fifth step is to update your portfolio regularly and keep it current and relevant. A portfolio is not a static document, but a dynamic and evolving showcase of your skills and experience. You should add new work samples, achievements, and feedback as you complete more projects, learn new skills, or receive more recognition. You should also remove outdated or irrelevant work samples, achievements, and feedback that do not reflect your current level of expertise or goals.

6 Share your portfolio

The final step is to share your portfolio with your potential employers or clients and use it as a tool to market yourself and your services. You can include a link to your portfolio in your resume, cover letter, or email signature, or you can print copies and hand them out at interviews, meetings, or events. You can also promote your portfolio on social media, online forums, or networking platforms and reach out to people who might be interested in your work. Be prepared to explain and demonstrate your portfolio and answer any questions or feedback you might receive.

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?