When it comes to creating something that is personal, rather than working to a client’s specification, a lot of people tend to come a bit unstuck. This is usually largely due to the fact that the idea of perfectionism is still sought after yet there is no apparent deadline so it’s easy to end up trying idea after idea without ever really settling on a conclusion.
Time without an online portfolio could prove to be time wasted. Not only will a portfolio boost your online presence, it will showcase your talents and help you to get work so it’s really important to get it up and running as soon as possible.
Consider its Purpose
Before you start conjuring up countless design ideas it’s important to consider the main aim of your portfolio first. Tackle it as you would a paid project, imagine you are the client and set project goals that need to be achieved.
Think about the following questions:
- Who do I want my audience to be?
- What image do I want to give out?
- What are my strengths?
- How can I stand out from everyone else?
Create a Logo
This is the first thing a user sees and it’s what will stick in the viewer’s mind when they’re trying to recall you. It doesn’t necessarily have to be an image, using your name as your logo could prove more beneficial, especially if you are promoting yourself rather than a business. Once you have created a logo ensure that it links the user back to the homepage.
The Actual Portfolio
This is obviously going to be the main bulk of the site and will determine whether the website is interesting or not. People who have been drawn to your website will want to see your previous work in order to form an opinion as to whether you are good or not.
Depending on what you do, your portfolio should contain high-quality images, links to work you have done or short descriptions and examples of what you can do. Include everything that is relevant to your main aim, even if it was part of your online MS in computer science that you completed years ago, anything on topic could help you to convince someone that you’re as good as you say you are.
About Me Section
People want to feel like they know someone, not just what that person is trying to sell or prove, but also that person’s past and story. An About Me section is your opportunity to make your portfolio more personal and create a bond and sense of trust between you and the viewer.
Share your background; where you came from and the steps leading to this point such as completing a masters in computer science online at New Jersey Institute of Technology and going on to work for a major leading company in the technology industry. Be sure to mention how many years experience you have accumulated and show off your awards and recognition.
Contact Details
This is the most important element of an online portfolio but is often the part that is neglected. It needs to be obvious and easy to access. Use a form to make it easier for the user and also so that you can ask for the specific information that you might require.
Every portfolio will be different because they are tailored to your individual needs but this doesn’t mean that doing a bit of research is a wasted effort. Look at portfolios created by the leaders of your chosen industry and think of ways that you can make yours look even better than that.