Hey, I’m Sean, and I’ll be honest—I only created my portfolio after college… and almost missed out on a job because of it.
It was so difficult for me to make one that during one of my job interviews, the employer asked for a portfolio. I ended up saying, “Can I follow this up? I forgot what the link was, sorry!”—because I didn’t have one at all.
Good thing the interviewer was nice and gave me a chance to send it to them. Nakakahiya grabe HAHAHA!
At that point, I promised myself that the weekend after, I’d actually start making one.
So, I made my very first website portfolio using Google Sites. Here’s a snapshot of what I did:
It’s not the most museum-worthy piece of art out there, but it was enough for my interviewer to schedule a second interview and even offer me a senior role despite my lack of experience.
Nakakaloka, I know.
But the fun didn’t stop there. I sent more resumes with my portfolio, and I actually got more interviews (although not a lot offered me roles, cries) since then!
Interviews may not seem like much, but when you consider the amount of ghosting you get during job hunting, it’s a total game-changer.
This experience made me realize just how powerful a portfolio is over certificates, words, or anything else you put on your resume.
I realized that while a resume can summarize all the great things you’ve done, your portfolio actually shows (and tells) a more convincing story of what you can do and the many other things you’re capable of.
Although making a portfolio doesn’t guarantee a job, it almost always increases the odds. And when the odds are rarely in your favor, who wouldn’t appreciate a leg up?
Kayo ba, what’s your portfolio story? Ano ang mga naging challenges niyo?