Creating a Professional Portfolio

When searching for your next career opportunity, standing out from the competition is an unfortunate reality. One job posting can result in hundreds of resumes, and dozens of interviews. Making an impact and rising to the top of the pile can seem like a challenge.

How can you stand out from the pack?

Professional portfolios are traditionally thought of as resources for artists or teachers, but, they are being used increasingly for professionals looking to shed additional light on their accomplishments and qualifications. To get started, simply purchase a neat, professional-looking binder from your local office supply store, and begin mapping out which accomplishments you’d like your portfolio to feature. Here are a few items you may want to include:

1. Your Complete Resume – Be sure to start your portfolio with a copy of your resume. This will help make your portfolio easily identifiable, but will also serve as an index of sorts, demonstrating your skills and experience at a high level before proceeding into specific information that further highlights your qualifications and accomplishments.
2. Letters of Recommendation – While many job candidates will list references when applying for a job, formal letters of recommendation can really help you stand out. Ask former colleagues or teachers to write letters, and be sure to include them in your portfolio.
3. Specific Pieces of Work – If you’re a sales rep, include one or two of your best proposals (and be prepared to discuss the results). Or, for other positions, include sample business letters or other documents you may have created. Strong communication skills are a “must” for just about every job opening!
4. Detailed Lists of Software/Technical Skills – In today’s evolving economy, software and technology skills are required for most positions. Keep a detailed list of all software you’ve used (including proprietary software), and be prepared to demonstrate your skills during the interview process.
5. Advanced Education Information – Did you attend university, or take industry-specific coursework? Include a detailed description of your studies and, if appropriate, your grades. An interest in learning and advancing your skills can demonstrate intelligence and ambition.

Compiling a professional portfolio can be an excellent way to help solidify your qualifications with an interviewer. And if you’re looking for your next career opportunity, Pinnacle can help. We match professionals with top employers across Winnipeg.