Online Portfolios

Written on 11:17 AM by Robert

I have learned that it is important to create an online portfolio if you are a programmer - and probably for most other creative careers as well (like graphic designers, for example). When you apply for a job, it is important to show off your talents.

Without an online portfolio, your potential employer will be forced to take your word that you are skilled at what you do. They have no choice but to take a chance on you based on your resume and if you don't live up to expectations, they may need to let you go - wasting their time and money in hiring you. This is their fear. To alleviate this fear, you should set up an online portfolio showcasing your talents and accomplishments in a visible way.

1) Get your own web domain. Remember, the ".com" suffix for a web site is for companies who are making money from the site. A popular suffix to use now for your own personal information is ".me". Pick a site name that means something to you - maybe your name. If you are new to setting up web sites, head to GoDaddy.com and see how much it would cost for the domain name and hosting. The fee is worth having your online brand personalized.

2) Create the site. You can use GoDaddy's online web designer or use software like Microsoft Expression Web, which already comes in Microsoft Office 2007. There are tons of web design programs out there. Use something you feel most comfortable with and is easy for you to use.

3) Show off the goods. Use plenty of screenshots of what you want to show off, and describe exactly what you are showing. Make it very easy for an outsider to understand.

4) Get people to see it. Give people your link. Include it in your email signature. Include it in your professional and social profiles. Once you've done that, you can do the advanced work on how to get more traffic to your site by Googling those tips, but that may not even be necessary if you send people to that site from your other profiles.

A potential employer will see your handiwork with his/her own eyes and will feel very comfortable that if you are hired, you will provide the kind of results that you have shown off - and increase your chance to be hired.

Do you have an online portfolio set up yet? If so, share the link in a comment below so we could check them out as examples (and generate some traffic to it).

Posted in jobs,online portfolio,programming