Portfolio Prep Tips
1. Be a Problem Solver – College and university creative programs are looking for those who can think and find creative solutions. Not only do you want to showcase your creative skills and technique, but also the thinking behind your piece or project. Answering "why?" is just as important as "how?" in your portfolio.
2. Embrace Your Process – You are not accepted into a program because you already have the skills. You are accepted based on your potential and fit. Show how you think and the process you took to get to your creative piece or project. Think: pages from your sketchbook, process notes, design iterations, rough drafts. These bring depth to your portfolio and help the reviewer or professor understand the way you work beyond the work itself.
3. Find the Sweet Spot – Most college and university programs will ask for 8 to 12 pieces or projects. Select your best. Ditch the mediocre. Pick the ones that inspire you the most – the ones you love to talk about. And allow for reviewers and professors to get to know you (a little) through your portfolio work.
4. Be Concise – College and university professors are busy. You have about 5 minutes to gain their attention and help them see your potential and fit for the program. Be concise with your project descriptions. Dial into 1-3 sentences (or less) and clearly articulate the process, purpose and production of your piece or project – make it skimmable. And remember to answer "why?" behind the creative work.
Portfolio Upgrade Tips
1. Be Clear – Creative directors and talent acquisition specialists want to see that you can present a problem, insight, concept and execution cohesively and compellingly in your work. If you have more than 2 paragraphs at the start, cut this description in half. And then cut it again by half. Be a captivating (and clear) storyteller when it comes to using (a usually) linear format to a portfolio site. And, if not linear, remain focused with how you present your work to demonstrate intentional choices and craft.
2. Embrace the Weird – Show work that you love and also work that takes risks – your portfolio is where you can push boundaries to connect. It's your chance to go beyond just "what the client would buy" and really showcase your creative thinking and skillset. Be weird. Be different. Be inspiring. Be delightful. And embrace what makes you stand out from other creatives in the field.
3. Make it Easy to Connect – I cannot tell you the number of times I've had recruiters ask, "So, how do I contact so-and-so?". They like your work but cannot find how to reach you on your site. Remember to include your contact details and make it super easy to find! Seemingly obvious – so do it.
4. Showcase You – Celebrate your work and also celebrate who you are as a creative thinker, doer and maker. Part of being a successful creative is doing other creative activities on the side. Give your 9 to 5. And then show your 5 to 9.