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Design a portfolio… Your own!

You’ve seen portfolios that have only a few pieces of art from some designers… This is not enough. As a designer you need to “DESIGN” your own portfolio and display your works like you are passionate about what you do.

Your portfolio will be the single most important thing that you do. It’s how you peddle your wares; convince the client or potential employer of your abilities. It’s the key piece to any interview. And in the case of online portfolios, it may be the qualifier to you getting an interview.

When creating a print portfolio the most effective formula is as follows:

• Keep it simple. Though you don’t want too few, make sure you don’t also overwhelm them with too many pieces. 10-15 should be quite enough. Usually by the third or fourth piece the client will know if they want to use you.
• Keep it flexible. Have several interchangeable pieces that you can customize to an interview. If you are going to a conservative corporation, you won’t necessarily need your ripping skateboard designs in there. If you are going to an agency interview, you will want to show them a variety of fun and creative works.
• Keep it relevant. The best practice for a portfolio is to show that you are capable of doing commonly requested tasks. They are also looking for consistency and if can you follow through a common thread on a campaigns. Try to have a combination of basics the below:
• Logo design
• Letterhead, Envelope, and Business Card.
• Newsletter Spread
• Direct Mail Piece
• Product Brochure
• Email Campaign
• Website Design



• Keep it you. The nice button down version of you, but you all the same. This is the only thing that you get total carte blanche on. Your portfolio must reflect you, your style and your uniqueness. If you want to stand out in a crowd. dazzle them with something they haven’t seen before. Many designers will get creative with the portfolio case. Try looking for a vintage accordion case, create a three-ring binder out of brushed metal, leather craft with your initials or logo. Make it fun and classy at the same time.

Design an online as well as an offline portfolio. An online portfolio is also the easiest and quickest way for a client to review your work. In this day of telecommuting, your client or employer could be miles away. Keep it fresh and updated. Something that they will want to periodically check in on.

Remember, presentation says a lot about you and how serious you are about getting their business and doing an amazing job. Try tailoring your portfolio to your next client (or prospective employer). They will be impressed

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ThePerfectDesign.com Team