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I’ve reviewed hundreds, perhaps thousands, of resumes and portfolios, interviewed dozens of designers, and hired some. If you’re planning to change your position or, as a freelancer, gain more trust from clients, these tips based on my experience may help you attract attention and successfully complete the process.
This article covers the following topics:
- The elements of a good portfolio
- What makes a solid case study
- How to structure your resume
- Tips for the recruiting process
- How to increase your visibility when looking for a job
- Challenge: completing a portfolio in less than a month
Now, let me share my observations and tips to help you succeed.
The portfolio: meaningful MVP
If Einstein lived today, he might rephrase his famous joke to: “Two things are infinite: the universe, human stupidity, and the time it takes to finish a designer’s portfolio.” Many creative professionals never finish their portfolios because they aim for perfection. However, recruiters and clients aren’t focused on this aspect.
You don’t need a flashy website to present your work. You need to showcase your work in a way that addresses the questions of the people who want to hire you. There are at least three perspectives to consider: recruiters, clients, and design managers.
What recruiters look for:
- Is it a good fit for the available position? Recruiters will check if your skillset, experience, and listed tools match the job requirements.
- Do you live in a region where working for this company is possible? This is especially important if you’re seeking remote work but are unwilling to relocate.
What clients want to know:
- Does this person do the type of work I need? Some clients may need a landing page, while others require a mobile app or a SaaS solution. Highlight your…
