Killer Folios
July 19, 2023
Mastering the art of ideation and execution is critical to any designer's success, but cultivating the craft of presentation propels you miles ahead of others. It is the fastest way to spotlight your gifts, front, and center.
We use our platforms to empower emerging creatives towards being able to achieve this. In this edition of Ding! we will highlight a few tips that make a world of difference when building a portfolio.
1. Have an Origin Story: Everyone you have ever respected or loved has a story you resonate with- It's what makes their vibe just right; you need one too. Take a moment to reflect on your design journey, how you fell in love with creativity, the challenges you overcame, and the skills you've honed along the way. Use your unique experiences to build a narrative that breathes life into your portfolio.
2. Present to Delight: Your portfolio should be a visual feast, showcasing your projects in the best light possible. Mock them up, place them in situ, and have prototypes. Ensure there's flair, finesse, and magic sprinkled all over it. A dazzling representation of your work can elevate a good project into a legendary one!
3. Assemble Your Faves: Your portfolio is your A-team, and each project is a formidable member with unique strengths. Choose your projects intentionally, representing your diverse range of skills and styles. Every project should be a compelling tale of triumph, of how you used your talent and perspective to overcome design challenges.
4. Embody Versatility: Flex your design muscles by including projects from different industries, and mediums. This versatility will demonstrate your adaptability and prove that you're ready to take on any creative challenge that comes your way. If your skillset is specialized,then you can tailor your portfolio reflect that exceedingly well.
5. Show Your Collaboration Skills: Teamwork makes the dream work! So, if you've collaborated with other creative minds or worked on team projects, highlight those experiences in your portfolio. This is how you signal your ability to thrive in a collaborative environment, a sought-after trait in the design world.
6. Make It User-Friendly: Your portfolio should save the time of potential employers and clients, not rob them of this precious resource. Keep your portfolio user-friendly and easy to navigate, so your audience can effortlessly explore your masterpieces and learn how your mind works wonders.
While all of these points are essential, one critical one is that you should only feature works you would love to do much more of in your portfolio. This prevents you from getting stuck doing work that does not fulfil you.
Go get 'em!
