In the early years of my freelancing journey, I used to send a Google Doc packed with links to my published blogs as a portfolio. Once in 2018, a client was kind enough to respond, but not before giving me a gentle nudge about how a Google Doc wasn’t exactly the best way to show off my work.
Her advice? Step up my game and create a portfolio that actually looks professional. At first, I was defensive—I mean, a Google Doc gets the job done, right? But I took her feedback to heart. Fast forward to today, and I’m rocking not one, but four different types of portfolios!
So buckle up, because I’m about to take you on a whirlwind tour of what makes a portfolio truly pop and how you can level up your presentation game!
1. Forget Google Docs: Build a Personal Website
A Google Doc filled with links might be easy, but it doesn’t exactly scream professionalism or creativity. A personal website, on the other hand, allows you to showcase your work in a visually appealing, organized, and professional way.
When I first switched from a Google Doc to a WordPress site using Elementor, it was like night and day. Suddenly, I had the flexibility to design a portfolio that reflected my brand, my style, and my personality. I could tell my story, not just show my work.
How to Get Started:
- Choose Your Platform: WordPress is my go-to because of its customization options, but Wix and Squarespace are great too if you’re looking for something more beginner-friendly.
- Focus on Design: Your site should be clean and easy to navigate. Pick a template that complements your work, not competes with it. The first website I built was too cluttered, and I learned the hard way that less is often more.
- Curate Your Work: Don’t try to include everything you’ve ever done. Instead, pick the projects that showcase your best work and highlight the diversity of your skills.
- Add a Personal Touch: Your website is a reflection of you. Include a bio that tells your story, and don’t be afraid to share a bit about your personality. Potential clients want to work with real people, not just skill sets.
2. Linktree: Simple, But Effective
Not every freelancer needs a full-blown website. If you’re just getting started or if your work is spread across different platforms, Linktree offers a simple and effective way to centralize all your important links. I started using Linktree to make my online presence more cohesive, and it’s been incredibly useful for sharing my work quickly, especially on social media.
How to Get Started:
- Set Up Your Linktree: It’s easy – just sign up and start adding links to your website, project samples, social media profiles, and any other relevant pages.
- Customize Your Profile: Even though Linktree is simple, it still allows for some branding. Use colors and styles that match your personal brand.
- Promote Your Linktree: Put your Linktree link everywhere – in your social media bios, email signature, and digital business cards. This makes it easy for people to find everything they need to know about you in one click.
3. Use Specialized Portfolio Platforms: Authory, Journo Portfolio, Clippings.me
If you’re a writer, journalist, or content creator, dedicated portfolio platforms like Authory, Journo Portfolio, and Clippings.me can save you a lot of time and effort. I haven’t used these platforms, but others found them helpful to automatically back up my work, track my articles’ performance, and keep everything organized without constantly updating my website.
How to Get Started:
- Choose the Right Platform: Each platform has its strengths. Authory is fantastic for automated backups and analytics, while Journo Portfolio and Clippings.me are more straightforward and easier to set up.
- Import Your Work: These platforms make it easy to import articles by simply pasting URLs. They’ll fetch the content and format it for you, saving you hours of manual work.
- Organize and Categorize: Use tags or categories to make it easy for potential clients to find relevant samples. This not only helps them but also shows your ability to handle diverse projects.
4. Canva: Create a Visual Portfolio That Pops
Visuals are powerful. Using Canva to create a visually stunning portfolio can make your work stand out. Whether you’re a graphic designer, photographer, or even a writer wanting to present your work in a more engaging way, Canva’s templates and design tools can help you create a polished, professional-looking portfolio. I remember the first time I showed a client a Canva-designed portfolio – their eyes lit up, and they immediately commented on the presentation quality.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a Template: Canva offers a wide variety of portfolio templates. Pick one that aligns with your style and customize it to fit your needs. Or just build something from the scratch — the choice is yours.
- Add Your Work: Upload images, screenshots, or PDFs of your work. Make sure everything is high-resolution to maintain quality.
- Customize the Design: Play with colors, fonts, and layouts to match your personal brand. Use icons, graphics, and other design elements to make your portfolio more engaging.
- Share and Present: Download your portfolio as a PDF, or share a direct link. You can even embed it on your website for easy access.
5. Think Beyond Static: Use Multimedia for Impact
A static portfolio might do the job, but if you really want to stand out, consider using multimedia. I’ve seen the impact of showcasing video reels, interactive presentations, or animations firsthand. These formats engage viewers more deeply and make your portfolio memorable.
How to Get Started:
- Create Engaging Content: If you’re a videographer, animator, or designer, create a showreel or interactive demo. Even writers can use video to create engaging introductions or summaries of their work.
- Host and Share: Use platforms like Vimeo, YouTube, or Adobe Spark to host your multimedia content. Embed these videos on your website or portfolio pages for seamless viewing.
- Promote on Social Media: Share short clips or teasers on platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn to drive traffic to your full portfolio. These platforms are perfect for multimedia content and can help you reach a wider audience.
6. Use Social Media as Your Portfolio
Social media platforms like Instagram, Behance, and Pinterest are gold mines for creatives. They not only let you showcase your work but also help you build a following and connect with potential clients. I’ve used Instagram to share my work and insights, and it’s led to networking opportunities and client inquiries I wouldn’t have found otherwise.
How to Get Started:
- Set Up a Professional Profile: Create a profile dedicated to your work. Keep your feed focused on your portfolio and professional updates.
- Curate Your Content: Post only high-quality images of your work. Use consistent filters and themes to make your profile visually appealing and professional.
- Engage with Your Audience: Follow other creatives, comment on their work, and participate in discussions. Social media is all about interaction, and building relationships can lead to collaborations and job opportunities.
What Will You Try?
It’s time to rethink what a portfolio should be. A simple list of links isn’t enough anymore. Your portfolio should be a dynamic, engaging showcase of your skills, creativity, and personality. Whether you choose to build a comprehensive website, use a tool like Linktree, or go for a visual-first approach with Canva, the key is to make sure your portfolio reflects who you are as a professional.
What’s your portfolio saying about you? Take a look at it from a fresh perspective. Does it tell your story? Does it grab attention? Does it make someone want to hire you on the spot? If not, it might be time for a revamp. Don’t just show your work – make it come alive. Your portfolio is your story. Make sure it’s a story worth reading.