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Freelancing is a creative field, and if you’re a freelancer, having a portfolio website is crucial for showcasing your work to potential clients. However, condensing years of experience into one portfolio can be overwhelming. In this guide, we will discuss key ways to make your portfolio website stand out and effectively communicate to future clients that you are the right person for the job.
Step 1: Determine a Goal for Your Online Portfolio
Before you start building your portfolio, it’s important to determine the goal and vision for your website. Do you want to target a specific niche or remain open to a diverse range of clients? Are you looking to showcase multiple areas of expertise or focus on a particular specialization? Defining the purpose of your portfolio will help you create a cohesive and impactful website.
One-Page Portfolio vs. a Full Portfolio
Depending on your goals and the nature of your work, you can choose between a one-page portfolio or a full portfolio. A one-page portfolio is ideal for freelancers who use their website as an introductory page, where clients can learn more about them after being introduced through other platforms like LinkedIn. On the other hand, a full portfolio is more suitable for freelancers who want to prioritize SEO and be found by potential clients through search engines.
Step 2: Choose Between Manual Coding or a Website Builder
Once you have decided on the type of online portfolio you want to create, the next step is to choose whether to build it manually or use a website builder. If you have no coding knowledge, using a website builder like Wix, WordPress, or Squarespace is the best option. These platforms offer templates and make it easy to showcase your work online in a straightforward way. If you are building a one-page portfolio, using templates will simplify the process.
Step 3: Highlight Your Best Work
When curating your portfolio, it’s important to showcase your best work rather than including everything you have ever done. Select the projects you are most proud of and that demonstrate a range of experience. Focus on the type of work you want to attract in the future. For example, if you are currently focused on illustration and no longer offering writing services, consider leaving your writing portfolio off your website. By being focused, you make it easier for clients to understand your strengths and how you can help them.
Add Descriptions of Each Project
To make your portfolio stand out, provide descriptions of each project you showcase. Instead of simply displaying the final deliverables, explain the context, challenges faced, and insights gained during the process. This additional information gives potential clients a deeper understanding of your work and the value you bring. Avoid overwhelming the reader with excessive text and find a balance between visuals and descriptions.
Step 4: Create a Compelling About Section
The “About” section of your portfolio is an opportunity to provide more background information about yourself and the services you offer. Be clear about what people are hiring you to do and give specific examples that demonstrate your skills and achievements. Instead of a generic list of skills, highlight the results you have achieved for clients. For example, if you are a web designer, mention how you have improved conversion rates or user experience for previous clients.
Step 5: Create a Strong Call to Action
Include your contact information and a strong call to action on your portfolio website. This can be a button directing potential clients to reach out via email or phone. Consider using a one-page portfolio approach where clients can request more information if they are interested. This allows you to track the users interested in your work and tailor your portfolio to their specific needs. If you have confidentiality agreements that prevent you from showing specific work publicly, this approach can provide a solution.
Step 6: Make Your Portfolio User-Friendly
To ensure your portfolio is effective, it’s important to design it in a user-friendly manner. Consider how users will navigate your website and make sure the buttons and layout are easy to understand. Use different fonts, font sizes, and bold text to make important information stand out. Avoid overwhelming the reader with excessive text and prioritize headlines that provide a quick overview of your work. A visually appealing and easy-to-navigate portfolio will leave a positive impression on potential clients.
By following these key steps, you can create an outstanding online portfolio that effectively showcases your work and communicates your expertise to potential clients. Remember to regularly update your portfolio with new projects and continue refining it to reflect your evolving skills and experiences.
