What do you do if your writing portfolio lacks the most important samples for an interview?

1 Tailor Content

If you're staring at your writing portfolio and it's missing pieces relevant to the job you're interviewing for, don't panic. Instead, focus on tailoring existing content to better fit the role. Look at the work you have and think critically about how it might relate to the position. Can any pieces be edited to highlight skills or knowledge that are transferable? Sometimes, showing that you can adapt and reframe your work is just as impressive as having a perfect sample.

2 Create Samples

When your portfolio lacks necessary samples, consider creating new ones. This proactive approach demonstrates initiative and a strong work ethic. You don't need to write a novel; short, targeted pieces that reflect the job's requirements can be very effective. Focus on quality over quantity, ensuring that each new sample shines with your best work and directly relates to the job you're aiming for.

3 Explain Context

Your portfolio might not have the specific samples an interviewer is looking for, but that doesn't mean your experience isn't relevant. It's crucial to explain the context behind your samples. Share the story of your projects—challenges faced, skills used, and the outcomes. This context can help bridge the gap between what's in your portfolio and what the employer is seeking, showing how your past work has prepared you for this new role.

4 Highlight Versatility

Versatility is a highly valued trait. Use your portfolio to highlight your adaptability and range as a writer. If you lack the exact samples an interviewer wants, show them a breadth of different styles and formats you've worked with. This demonstrates your ability to tackle various writing challenges and can position you as a valuable asset who can handle diverse tasks.

6 Offer Solutions

Finally, if your portfolio isn't up to scratch, be prepared to offer solutions during the interview. If an interviewer points out a gap, acknowledge it and discuss how you'd approach such a project. You might even suggest completing a sample post-interview to demonstrate your ability to meet their needs. This shows not only that you're willing to go the extra mile but also that you're confident in your ability to deliver the type of writing they need.

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?