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.
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:
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com
- Weebly: weebly.com
- Wix: www.wix.com
- Behance: https://www.behance.net/
- Format: https://www.format.com/
- Coroflot: https://www.coroflot.com/
- Carbonmade: https://carbonmade.com/
- WordPress: https://wordpress.com/