In today’s market, your portfolio is more than a showcase, it’s your calling card.
It should capture your best work, reflect your current ambitions, and make it easy for potential employers and clients to understand your creative direction. A well-curated, thoughtfully designed portfolio doesn’t just show what you’ve done, it signals where you’re heading.
Our Creative & Design specialist Nicky Pearson shares some great advice and 6 key things to consider before you start your refresh...
Thinking of updating your portfolio?
It's more important than ever to have a folio that reflects your best work, is well designed, easy to navigate and reflects the type of work you are looking to do that will resonate with a prospective employer.
Here are some ideas to think about before you start the design:
Lead with Your Best Work
ECDs/CDs/talent teams often spend just a few minutes reviewing a portfolio, so it's crucial to showcase your strongest and most relevant projects upfront. Tailoring this each time is ideal (or provide a link to the right work to save time). Aim for 5–6 projects that highlight your skills and creativity. Quality wins over quantity; a few exceptional pieces are more impactful than a multitude of average ones and keep them current.
Showcase Your Thinking
Beyond the final design product, employers are interested in your thought process. Include brief case studies/intro pages that outline the project's background, your role, the challenges faced, and how you arrived at the solution. This demonstrates your problem-solving abilities and strategic thinking.
Keep It Clean
A well-organised, easy-to-navigate portfolio allows your work to take centre stage. Avoid overcomplicating the design; make sure that your projects are the focal point. Ensure that your contact information is readily accessible.
Include Essential Information
Your portfolio should contain:
About Page: A brief introduction, your background, and what drives your creativity.
Contact Details: Email, phone number, hyperlinks to professional social media profiles.
Your CV: Highlighting your experience, education, and any relevant skills.
Awards and Recognitions: If applicable, list them.
Show Your Personality
Bringing a unique voice and style can make your folio memorable. Whether it's through the layout you design, tone of your writing or the projects you choose to feature, let your individuality come through.
Optimise
Ensure your portfolio is responsive and looks great on all devices. High-quality visuals and fast loading times enhance the user experience, making it easier for prospective employers to appreciate your work.
By planning and considering these points, you'll create a portfolio that not only showcases your best work but also communicates your creative process and personality, key factors that most CDs value when considering candidates.
If you're looking for advice on how to create a recruitment strategy that attracts the best Creative and Design talent available, or are looking for a new role yourself, DMCG Global can help. Our expert consultants would be happy to discuss your needs.
Get in touch today to find out more.
