10 tips for building your first portfolio website

Stepping into the professional world can be both exciting and daunting. One of the most effective ways to showcase your skills, experience, and personality to potential employers is through a well-crafted portfolio website. A portfolio website serves as your personal brand ambassador, providing a comprehensive overview of your work and achievements.

Here are some essential tips to help you build a standout portfolio website that will leave a lasting impression.

1. Define your purpose and audience

Before you start designing your website, it's crucial to define its purpose and audience. Are you looking to attract potential employers, clients, or collaborators? Understanding your target audience will help you tailor your content and design to meet their expectations.

For instance, if you're aiming to secure a job in academia, your portfolio might emphasise research projects and publications, whereas a portfolio for a creative industry might focus on visual projects and design skills. As a software developer, you can showcase your frontend skills by creating engaging interactive components that can be embedded into your site, or you can build a unique form or game that can be also placed somewhere on your portfolio, something this website did really well. You can also use external links to other sites that are hosting bigger projects you worked on.

2. Choose the right platform

Selecting the right platform is a critical step in building your portfolio website. There are numerous options available, ranging from website builders like Wix, Squarespace, and WordPress to more customisable platforms like GitHub Pages for those with coding skills. Consider your technical expertise, the level of customisation you require, and the overall look and feel you want to achieve when choosing a platform.

Pssst…by the way, we offer something in-between: with Pecometer’s subscription package, you can achieve a unique result fast without having to learn coding. Our designers and developers will create your website for you, using the content we receive from you, and you’ll be able to benefit from ongoing maintenance and personalised support.

3. Create a clean and professional design

First impressions matter, and your website's design is the first thing visitors will notice. Aim for a simple, clean, professional design that reflects your personal brand. Use a consistent colour scheme, typography, and layout to create a cohesive look. Avoid clutter and ensure that navigation is intuitive, allowing visitors to easily find the information they need.

4. Showcase your best work

Your portfolio should highlight your best work in a way that is engaging and easy to navigate. Organise your projects into categories or sections, and provide detailed descriptions for each one. Include high-quality images, videos, or other media to visually represent your work. For each project, describe your role, the tools and technologies you used, and the impact or results of the project. This not only showcases your skills but also provides context and demonstrates your problem-solving abilities.

5. Include a strong “About” page

Your About page is an opportunity to introduce yourself and give visitors a sense of who you are. Write a concise and engaging bio that highlights your background, skills, and interests. Include a professional photo and any relevant information about your education, experience, and career goals. This page should reflect your personality and make a personal connection with your audience.

6. Add testimonials and references

Including testimonials and references from professors, mentors, or previous employers can add credibility to your portfolio. These endorsements provide third-party validation of your skills and work ethic, which can be particularly enticing to potential employers. Make sure to seek permission before including any testimonials, and consider adding a LinkedIn profile link for additional references.

7. Optimise for SEO

Search engine optimisation (SEO) can help your portfolio website rank higher in search engine results, making it easier for potential employers to find you. Use relevant keywords throughout your website, particularly in your project descriptions, About page, and blog posts if you have them. Additionally, ensure your website is mobile-friendly and has fast loading times, as these factors also impact your SEO ranking.

8. Keep your content updated

Your portfolio is a living representation of you that should evolve as you gain new experiences and skills. Regularly update your website with new projects, publications, and achievements. An up-to-date portfolio demonstrates that you are actively engaged in your field and committed to continuous improvement.

9. Provide clear contact information

Make it easy for potential employers to get in touch with you. Include a clear and accessible contact page with your email address, LinkedIn profile, and any other relevant contact information. Consider adding a contact form for convenience. This ensures that interested parties can easily reach out to you for job opportunities or collaborations.

10. Include a blog (optional)

Finally, adding a blog to your portfolio website can be a great way to showcase your knowledge and thought leadership in your field. Write about topics that interest you, share insights from your projects, or discuss trends and developments in your industry. A blog can also help with SEO and provide additional content for potential employers to engage with.

Summary

Building a portfolio website is an investment in your professional future. By following these tips, you can create a polished and effective online presence that showcases your skills, experience, and personality, helping you stand out in a competitive job market. Good luck!

Still not sure where to start? Reach out to learn more about our portfolio website development!