Why having an online portfolio is the best resume as a creative and how to build one
The first question that usually pops up when a creative is recommended for a task or job is, "Do they have an online portfolio I can look at?". This is because a portfolio allows people to assess your work and decide if you are a good fit for them at all before they reach out to you.?
You see, as a creative, an excellent online/social portfolio speaks volumes about not just your work but also your consistency and ability to deliver.?
Most creatives are perfectionists, and this prevents them from putting their work out because they are waiting for when it gets perfect.?
In this guide, I will cover everything you need to know about building a great online/social portfolio, including:
Let’s get started
What is an online portfolio?
An online portfolio is a digitally accessible and shareable catalogue of your creative work, skills and experience. Think of it as a place with all your best and favourite work.
How to build a great online portfolio
If your online portfolio does not explain who you are and what you do, it has not served its purpose.?
An excellent online portfolio should be simple, up to date, easy to understand and accurate at representing your skillset and experiences.?
To build a great online portfolio, here are six things you need to do:
Decide on what channel is best for your work: Start small and simple. Getting intentional about building an online portfolio can be challenging, so small and simple is the best way to start. Consider starting with one and then expanding to others as you grow.?
Here are a few options you might want to consider: Instagram, Media Agency (e.g. VIOU DIGITAL), Youtube, Website, LinkedIn (best for building a professional network)
Join our waitlist on VIOU at www.vioudigital.com?
Choose a niche and stick with it: Choosing a niche does not mean you get to lose on opportunities. It means you get to get better ones.?
A client that needs to shoot ads video will not look for just anyone who can make videos; they will most like look for a videographer with experience in creating video ads
Create a clear bio based on your selected niche: Consider your bio as a 5sec pitch to any potential client. Please keep it simple, concise and understandable. Now is not the time to start throwing in industry jargon. Doing this will ensure that only the people who need your kind of service reach out to you.?
Make sure the content you put out matches your bio: If you are into various things as a creative, consider setting up different portfolios for them; trust me, it helps.
Clients would instead approach someone who says he is a product photographer and has an excellent online portfolio to show for it than a product photographer, video editor, events manager, and content marketer with a jumbled up portfolio.?
Show up consistently: You don't have to be the best at what you do now, but you have to be consistent because consistency will bring out the best in you.?
You can draw up a content calendar to outline how many times a week you are comfortable posting. You don't have to post every day, but you do have to be consistent. And yes, that includes days when you don’t feel like your work is good enough
Network with other creatives: Consider connecting and building relationships with other creatives online, attending events for creatives and joining a creative community.?This will help you to increase your reach in the innovative marketplace.
VIOU is building the largest community of creatives in Africa. With the creative community at VIOU, you will have access to a global network of professional creatives, networking opportunities, and content to help you improve your skill. Join our waitlist at www.vioudigital.com?
Please don’t wait for when your skills are perfect, start building that online portfolio today, and I guarantee you, not only will you get better at what you do. You would have gathered tons of fans who can attest to your work and growth and give you solid recommendations without you having met them at all.