How to Build a Professional Writing Portfolio

One of the most important assets any writer has to have--aside from the ability to write well--are examples of her work. Not only does the writing need to be good, but it needs to be applicable across a wide range of topics. Writers who are just beginning a freelance career, or who are simply thinking about it, should put a little time and sweat into assembling a sample portfolio any professional would be proud of.

Instructions

1. Volunteer your writing skills. When beginning a professional writing career, one of the easiest ways to build a portfolio is to put your skills out there to benefit a good cause or two (or three, or four). Nonprofit organizations, churches and young businesses all have little to no money set aside for the writing and designing of advertisements, brochures or sales materials. So step up and do something for these organizations that will benefit you both.

   Also, there are web-based organizations that will allow you to write on a wide range of topics (usually any topic you would like) and pay you for it. However, they pay very little, so in the beginning it is more like donating your time than it sounds. Other websites pay you a small fee per article, and these are also a good way to get paid a little for your time.

2. Incorporate school assignments. You do not have to be an English major to begin to build your portfolio using writing samples written for an academic purpose. Most degree programs require their students to write papers, so if you have even the slightest desire to write professionally in your field of study, keep your papers. You can ask your professors to help you improve your papers, even after the assignment is over and graded. Just tell them you are building a writing portfolio and that you could use their help improving your papers. More often than not, they will give you at least some guidance.

3. Enter writing contests. There are literally hundreds of contests that cover every known genre. Many of these contests charge an entry fee; the amount varies greatly. Prizes are often attached, including publication of your writing if you win. Some of these contests are very prestigious. Winning a writing contest looks very good on a resume, and can act as a tie-breaker if a potential employer is trying to decide between you and one or more other job candidates. Even if you don't win a prize, contests award honorable mentions to a handful of writers; if you make it that far, put that on your resume, too. Even being accepted by a writing contest is a resume-worthy event. If nothing else, you can use your entry or entries as part of your writing portfolio.

4. Don't forget any writing you may be doing in your current job. Many aspiring writers write as part of their current job and do not realize that they can use that material in their portfolio if their employers or clients allow it. You may be able to add a provision to your writing contract that will allow you to use your writing in your portfolio.

   As a writer, your portfolio lets larger and more diverse with each assignment. Focus for a while on building a good, solid portfolio, and you may get to the point where potential employers and clients come looking for you.

Resources

• Building a Professional Writing Portfolio