Module 03: Job Search

Portfolio

Your resume and cover letters are the primary tools you’ll create to demonstrate that you are a strong candidate for the target position. If you want to stand out even more to employers, you may also want to consider creating a portfolio. In certain fields, portfolios are more common. Be sure to do your research to determine if your field is one of them.

A portfolio is a collection of professional and academic documents that showcases your skills, experience and provides the employer with a clearer picture of what you have to offer.

Here are some tips that will help you build a compelling portfolio:

  • Present your portfolio in a binder. Keep it neat and use plastic report covers to protect your documents.
  • Showcase your personality. Format your portfolio in a way that reflects who you are as a professional.
  • Include a table of contents. This will allow you to quickly flip to relevant documents.
  • Introduce your portfolio during the interview. Make sure to ask whether this is something the interviewer
    would like to see.
  • Keep your portfolio updated and targeted to the job and employer. You never know when you might need it.
  • Include experiences and reflections from your extra-curricular activities, pertinent volunteer experiences, field placements, co-ops, internships and academic learning.

Portfolio Materials to Consider Including:

  • Certificates
  • Publications
  • News Articles
  • Organizational Charts
  • Records
  • Degrees
  • Training Certificates
  • Work Samples
  • Writing Samples
  • Evaluations
  • Awards
  • Performance indicators
  • Photos
  • Transcripts
  • Company Information
  • Reference Letters
  • Thank You Letters

Digital Portfolio

An online portfolio is a curated electronic version of what is described above. The benefit of posting a portfolio online is that it gives employers access to peruse your accomplishments at a time convenient to them.

Examples of sites offering online portfolios:

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Charting Your Course: A Roadmap to Thriving in the Field of Health Copyright © 2023 by Susan Fried is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.

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