Portfolios: What, Why & How
To review a sample portfolio or get advice on what to include visit the St. Paul Campus Career Center in 198 McNeal Hall or call 612-624-2710 to schedule an appointment.
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89% of employers who saw portfolios in interviews said that they have a positive impact on their evaluation of the candidates.
- U of M 2007/2008 Employer Survey
A professional portfolio is a collection of work samples from work or academics that show your skills to employers. Portfolios are no longer just for those in the visual arts, but are considered a great job search tool for all fields.
Hard Copy Portfolios
Hard copy portfolios include copies of your work placed into a professional looking binder. It is intended for use during an interview where items are shared while answering questions so employers see real examples of your skills and accomplishments.
Electronic Portfolios
Electronic portfolios can be created by loading work samples into a web site or onto a CD. The URL for a web portfolio can be put on your resume allowing an employer to view your work before or after an interview. CDs can be sent to an employer in advance or left behind after an interview.
Items to Include in a Portfolio:
- Resume
- Writing samples
- Computer work
- Awards
- Transcripts
- Class projects
- Goal statements
- Documents created at internships
- Student leadership examples
Portfolio Tips
- Place items in slip covers and include typed labels to each item that briefly explains what the item is and what skills it illustrates.
- Bring only the best 15-20 items with you to an interview.
- Integrate the items into the interview as you answer questions (rather than sharing it only at the end).