We get it, finding time to work on your portfolio isn’t easy when you are balancing client work and personal responsibilities. But spending time on your portfolio is important if you want to get new clients. It lets you show your projects and what makes you and your work special.
Your portfolio shows what you are capable of and highlights the experience you have built in the industry. It is also the most important page on your website. It can be the reason someone decides to hire you, or not. You can write the most amazing bio and make yourself sound like the perfect fit for any project. But what most visitors really want to know is simple: What have you done and what can you do for me?
We talked with Reactive, a web design London agency. They shared some tips and tricks on how to make your portfolio stand out.
Show your best work
You don’t need to include twenty projects. Just add your best six or eight. Even if you only have four great pieces, that is enough. Only include work you are proud of. Your portfolio should show the very best of what you can do. A few strong projects are better than a bunch of average ones.
Clean and user-friendly design
Prioritise a clean and user-friendly design, making it easy for viewers to navigate and understand your skills and experience. Avoid clutter and organise your portfolio in a way that feels simple and straightforward. Clear headings, readable fonts and easy navigation make it easy for people to explore your work without getting lost.
Build case studies that tell a story
Case studies are what really bring your portfolio to life. Nowadays, just showing a pretty screenshot will not do. You want to take people through the whole story. Start by explaining the problem. Give some background for each project, including the goals, your role and any important achievements. Use simple words to describe the solutions you found for the client.
Quality images
Show your best work using high-quality images. You can also include before-and-after comparisons to highlight design improvements. Clear, sharp visuals are key to a great web design portfolio. They grab attention and let viewers see the details of your work, giving them a better sense of your style and skills. Good images help you make a strong impression and keep potential clients interested in what you can do. Really go the extra mile on this step because presentation makes all the difference in your portfolio.
Introduce yourself
Make it personal by sharing a bit about yourself. A short section about your background, what inspires you or what you enjoy can help others feel more connected to you. Just don’t share too much, a little goes a long way.
Make it easy for potential clients to get in touch
It might seem obvious, but many online portfolios focus so much on design that they forget the main goal, helping potential clients get in touch. Make sure to include your contact info, like an email address, phone number or a built-in contact form. Don’t forget links to your social media and any professional profiles. You can create a full contact page, add links in the footer or place a big Contact Me button on your homepage, whatever makes it easiest for clients to reach out.
Real words from clients help you grow
You can say you are good at what you do, but it means more when other people say it too. If you are a writer, videographer or product designer, ask your clients to tell how you helped them. Don’t be shy to ask for short quotes to put on your website. People who like your work will usually be happy to give you nice reviews. If you have received industry awards or recognition, feature these prominently.
Check how your portfolio looks on mobile
Today, most people use their phones first, but your portfolio still needs to look great on both big desktop screens and smaller mobile ones. A good portfolio adjusts easily so it works well no matter what device someone is using.
Your website is always a work in progress
Once your page is live, the hardest part is over. But just because it is done doesn’t mean the work stops. Keep adding new projects and things you have worked on while they are still fresh in your mind. It is also easy to collect source files, stats and quotes from the right people. Aim to refresh your portfolio at least once every 6 months.
Conclusion
A great portfolio website is more than just looking nice. It should show who you are, what you do and why someone should work with you. Keep it simple, easy to use and make sure it works well on phones too. Use clear pictures of your work, write short and honest descriptions. When your website is clear and personal, it helps people remember you. If you need help, a London WordPress Agency can build a website that shows who you really are.
