What are some examples of successful career portfolios and branding strategies?

1 Choose a format

The first step is to decide how you want to present your career portfolio. You can use a traditional paper-based portfolio, a digital portfolio, or a combination of both. A paper-based portfolio is a binder or folder that contains printed copies of your resume, cover letter, certificates, awards, references, and work samples. A digital portfolio is a website, blog, or online platform that displays your resume, cover letter, certificates, awards, references, and work samples in an interactive and multimedia way. A combination portfolio is a paper-based portfolio that includes a link or QR code to your digital portfolio. The format you choose depends on your industry, audience, and preference.

2 Select your content

The next step is to select the content that best represents your skills, experience, and achievements. You should include your resume and cover letter, as well as any relevant certificates, awards, references, and testimonials. You should also include work samples that demonstrate your abilities and accomplishments in your field. Work samples can be reports, presentations, articles, videos, podcasts, designs, projects, or anything else that showcases your work. You should choose work samples that are relevant, recent, and diverse. You should also include a brief introduction or summary that explains who you are, what you do, and what you offer.

4 Create your brand

The fourth step is to create your brand identity and voice for your portfolio. Your brand is how you want to be perceived by your potential employers or clients. It reflects your personality, values, and style. Your brand identity is the visual and verbal elements that communicate your brand, such as your name, logo, tagline, bio, photo, and tone. Your brand voice is the tone and style of your writing and speaking, such as formal, casual, friendly, or authoritative. You should create a brand identity and voice that are consistent, authentic, and memorable for your portfolio.

5 Update your portfolio

The fifth step is to update your portfolio regularly to keep it current and relevant. You should add new content that reflects your latest skills, experience, and achievements. You should also remove outdated or irrelevant content that does not align with your goals or brand. You should also review and revise your portfolio to ensure that it is accurate, clear, and error-free. You should also check and test your portfolio to make sure that it is functional, accessible, and user-friendly.

6 Share your portfolio

The final step is to share your portfolio with your potential employers or clients. You should include your portfolio link or QR code in your resume, cover letter, email signature, social media profiles, and business cards. You should also promote your portfolio on your website, blog, or online platform, and invite feedback and comments from your network. You should also use your portfolio as a tool to showcase your work and achievements in interviews, meetings, or pitches. You should also be prepared to explain and elaborate on your portfolio content and brand.

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?