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Step 1
Build a portfolio for a construction, remodeling or design business by taking good photographs of every job you do. For example, if you remodel a house--or even one room of a house--take pictures before you begin your work. Then be sure to get pictures of every phase of your job's progress. Finally, take good, clear photos of the finished room (or each finished room if you do a whole house).
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Step 2
Think about how to build a portfolio for a real estate career as another example. Keep every note of thanks you receive from clients after a transaction is complete. You may receive flowers as a gift from a client or a basket of treats as a thank-you for your services. Take good pictures of these type gifts and keep the delivery cards that come with them (if signed by your client). These notes and gifts look good in a portfolio and are proof of satisfied customers with whom you obviously built good relationships.
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Step 3
Have someone take your picture with clients in front of the home you sold for them. Make sure your real estate "For Sale" sign (with your name clearly shown) gets into the picture. Also, get someone to snap a picture at the closing table with you and your happy clients together.
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Step 4
Arrange your photographs, notes, letters of appreciation and any certificates of accomplishments or education in a three-ring binder. Put the pages into clear, plastic covers to keep them looking sharp and clean. Use labeled tabs and dividers in your binder notebook so that you can flip easily to a page you want to show to prospective clients or employers.
