Creating an effective resume is an important part of the job search process. Most job seekers know the importance of creating a cover letter that complements their resume, but a portfolio should also act as a continuation of the information found on a resume. The information included in a portfolio should mimic the information on the resume so the two items create a cohesive unit.
A portfolio is a compilation of projects and documents that reflect the portfolio owner's work or educational experiences. The portfolio provides more information about the experiences listed on the resume. For example, if a job seeker has listed working as a proposal writer on a resume, the job seeker can create a portfolio and include sample proposals to showcase the listed item.
A resume is a snapshot of a job seeker's experience, so a portfolio can be used as the proof of what a job seeker knows. When creating a portfolio, the job seeker should include his best and most important projects. The portfolio is the second "first" impression a prospective employer will have for the applicant.
The portfolio can match the resume in other ways as well. For example, the text font and color on both the resume and portfolio should match. This will give the resume and portfolio a uniform look. You can also include the cover letter in the design process, but the font and text color for the cover letter should be one that is easy to read.
If a job seeker is tailoring a resume for a specific position, information used when creating the portfolio should match what is listed on the resume — plus a few other items to show versatility. If a job seeker is applying for a graphic design position and tailors a resume for that specific position, then the job seeker's portfolio should include all the seeker's best graphic design work and a few other designs done in a different format, such as watercolor or photography. Tailoring a resume, honing a cover letter and creating a portfolio for a job is an ideal way for a job seeker to display an eye for detail and show true interest in a position. Tailored resumes and portfolios go a long way with prospective employers, especially in positions where portfolios are the norm.
It's said that finding a job is the hardest job, so tools or tips that can help should be tried at least once. Creating a portfolio that matches a resume is something a job seeker can do to stand out from the other candidates during the job search. The portfolio might seem like a small factor, but for prospective employers, the little pieces of an application make the difference between being overlooked or being hired.
Photo courtesy of phanlop88 at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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