Design Portfolio Tips: Insights from DLR Group Designers and Hiring Managers

Your portfolio is a collection of your work – a visual narrative of your design journey showcasing your skills, creativity, and professional identity. Having been in those shoes before, we understand the importance of a well-crafted portfolio. But why should you have to guess what we want to see? Our first LinkedIn article shares tips from our designers and hiring managers.

1. Prioritize Legibility and Clarity

When it comes to presenting your work, clarity is key. Ensure your images are crisp and your text is easily readable, even on a laptop screen. Utilize varying line weights, colors, and other design elements to enhance clarity in your drawings, plans, and diagrams. Avoid high contrast settings that strain the eyes – your portfolio should be a pleasure to view.

2. Craft Your Story with Care

The narrative you create around your work is as crucial as the work itself. Be concise and strategic with your use of white space, and maintain consistency in typography, imagery, and layout choices. Attention to detail in storytelling can set your portfolio apart – proofread thoroughly to ensure your message is delivered flawlessly.

3. Distinguish Collaborative Work

Design is inherently collaborative. Clearly indicate which projects were solo endeavors and which involved teamwork. For collaborative efforts, specify your contributions versus those of your peers. This transparency not only highlights your skills but also showcases your ability to work effectively with others.

4. Showcase Your Problem-Solving Abilities

While finished renderings are impressive, what truly excites us is seeing your design process. Include iterative sketches and concept diagrams that demonstrate how you approach and solve design challenges. This glimpse into your problem-solving methods is invaluable.

5. Edit Ruthlessly

In the world of portfolio reviews, more isn’t always better. We often sift through dozens of portfolios daily – help yourself stand out by editing critically. Include only the projects that best showcase your strengths as a designer, and lead with your most impactful work.

Unlock even more invaluable insights and expert advice by downloading our full exclusive portfolio guide here.

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