How to Create a Web Portfolio

A web portfolio is a way to showcase professional experiences online.

A web portfolio is a way to digitally display documents, multimedia projects, resumes and other materials pertaining to an individual's career and life experience on the Internet. While there are software and online web programs that facilitate the creation of web or ePortfolios, there are also ways to go about making a web portfolio on your own. Use a free blog service or purchase a web domain to showcase photographs, links or any other materials that may be relevant. Aspects featured in web portfolios can vary depending on personal preferences, career aspirations or an individual's level of experience; however, many portfolios commonly feature resumes.

Instructions

1. Gather the materials to be featured in the web portfolio. Create digital versions of the items that you would like to include in the web portfolio if they are not already in a digital format. Scan job references and convert them into PDF files, import photographs, and/or upload videos if applicable. Create a folder on your computer's desktop to store the items to be included in the web portfolio.

2. Locate a service to create and host a blog; many free options are available on the Internet. Be sure that the blog hosting provider allows file hosting so that image files, PDF document files and other files can be uploaded and displayed.

3. Upload the files that you would like to include in the web portfolio. Determine how you would like to organize the materials on your blog or website. Create a page to display each kind of document or information that you would like to showcase; for example, a page for photographs, a page to display a resume, and a page with biographical information.

4. Make the navigation of your site for users clear and simple. Display links to social networking sites like Twitter, LinkedIn and Plaxo if applicable. If you choose, update your blog with career news or your personal expertise.

Tips & Warnings

• You may want to limit the amount of personal photographs or information you display on your web portfolio as they could be off-putting to potential professional contacts.

References

• Smashing Magazine: Creating A Successful Online Portfolio

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Digital Web Magazine: Creating The Perfect Portfolio