How do you choose the right portfolio website platform and design for your niche and goals?

Even though you may not have the skills right now, consider the investment of learning the skills for a better long term outcome.

In my experience, choosing a portfolio website platform goes beyond simply comparing costs and features. It's about finding a balance between your budget and your technical skills. For those less familiar with web design or development, platforms like Squarespace or Wix provide intuitive and user-friendly interfaces. On the other hand, if you're willing to spend more time learning, platforms like WordPress offer more control and customization. Ultimately, it's about finding a platform that complements your skills and meets your specific needs without causing unnecessary financial strain. ??

Understanding your niche and audience is crucial in creating an effective portfolio website. It's not enough to just display your work; it should be presented in a context that resonates with your target audience. By understanding your audience's needs and expectations, you can tailor your portfolio to highlight the work most relevant to them. For example, if you're a graphic designer targeting start-ups, emphasizing branding and logo designs may attract more attention than print work. ??

Even before you decide who your audience is, define three problem you are trying to solve with your service/product. THEN picture who might have this problem that can benefit from your service/product. Once you have those pieces, go a step further and define the experience you want that audience to have. What do you want them to walk away with? People will remember how you made them feel before they even remember your name.

But keep it simple. It shouldn't be hard for someone to contact you. Make your "contact me" button visible, easy to fill out, but also provide an email. Some might pass on a form but email you instead. You should cater to all types of communication.

A well-designed portfolio is wasted if it's not discoverable by your target audience. That's why optimizing for SEO and CRO is so important. Remember, SEO is about more than just incorporating keywords; it's about creating valuable content that aligns with what your audience is searching for. Similarly, CRO isn't just about converting any visitor but about attracting and converting the right visitors, those that align with your professional goals. ??

A successful portfolio goes beyond showcasing your skills and experiences - it's also a reflection of who you are as a person. Use your portfolio to express your unique personality and style, this will help you stand out from the competition and connect more effectively with potential clients or employers. Remember, people want to work with people, not just skill sets, so don't be afraid to show a bit of yourself in your portfolio. ??

Keep in mind that your portfolio website is an evolving project. It's not something you simply set and forget. Be open to feedback, be it from peers, mentors, clients or your audience, and use it to continuously improve and adjust your portfolio. Additionally, remember to consider the user experience at all times, ensuring your website remains accessible and easy to navigate. ??