How can you use your portfolio to connect and collaborate?

Your portfolio is more than a showpiece; it's your career's calling card. A few things you should keep in mind: 1. Customize it for the job you want, not the jobs you've had. 2. Add real results to show you mean business. 3. Share it directly with people who can open doors for you(don't just apply and wait for opportunities).

The three Why's need to be answered honestly. Why bother? Why should the audience/customer/collaborator care about what you do - that's the first Why! Why you? What is it about you that should get them to take notice. Social Proof, Real testimonials, What you have been sharing online relating to your expertise. Why now? Its a distracted and overwhelmed world. What's the timeliness and urgency for someone to know that they need to connect with you NOW and act.

This may sound unpopular, but I would encourage feedback. When we invite critiques and suggestions, you display humility and willingness to learn. This not only improves your work but also initiates conversation, laying the foundation for potential collaborations.

What truly sets your portfolio apart is its reflection of your unique essence. More than aligning with the needs and preferences of your audience, it's about letting them journey into your world, the intricacies of your thought process, and the depth of your passions. Think of your portfolio as a reflection of your intent, purpose, and authenticity. While user personas and multimedia elements are vital, they come alive when they're imbued with the heart and soul of the creator. Let your portfolio not just be a window but a gateway, inviting your audience into your ideas, dreams, and possibilities. And as they engage with your work, they're merely connecting with projects or skills; they're resonating with the essence of who you are.

Here's a creative example that I've seen people do: Instead of merely showcasing designs in a virtual folder or webpage, turn your portfolio into a time-lapse video content form. This not only displays your expertise but also the hard work behind each work. The process itself will create a visual experience that will help build trust and credibility. When possible, embed real-time reviews/testimonials at the end. At the end of the day, it's not just about showing talent but building faith in the process and results.

You can also treat your portfolio as a living "museum" of collaboration. It isn't just about what you've done, but what you aspire to co-create. Instead of simply promoting static images on your social media accounts, use "collaborative gaps" – areas in your work you wish to expand but need others' expertise. Highlight a project where, perhaps, a storyteller could amplify its message, or a coder could bring it to life. This turns your portfolio into an interactive canvas that can invite an audience to envision a joint venture, filling the gaps together. This turns your portfolio from being a mere retrospective showcase to a proactive bridge, enticing others to co-author your next masterpiece.

It is important to understand that focus is KEY. While it may be tempting to talk and share about a lot of topics, the audience has to be able to map you to ONE thing that defines you - otherwise they will lose you. Which means that all actions should be in support of your WHY. It doesn't mean that you should be in sell mode all the time (quite the opposite). But rather sharing opinions, expert advice, failures, community support ... should be towards that singular goal

Challenge yourself to deviate from a one-sided display of portfolio/skills to a more participatory, interactive form. This not only helps create a connection with your target audience but also establishes trust because of the immersive experience.