How to prepare a portfolio?
The portfolio is an important element of many recruitment processes related to creative positions at LPP. Through it, we are able to learn about candidates' skills, styles and experience. Below, we have gathered some key information and tips that can help you prepare a coherent body of work and attract the attention of recruiters.
Before you start building a portfolio, ask yourself the following questions:
What designs bring me the greatest satisfaction and joy? What are the things I feel most comfortable with? What experience do I have? In what direction do I want to develop? What style suits my sense of aesthetics?
Read the advert you are applying for carefully and tailor your portfolio to the position profile. For example, let’s say you are applying for a position as a fashion print designer in the KIDS department. Your portfolio should include designs with a children’s theme and print designs. For the HOME area, include designs and graphics related to home furnishings elements and packaging projects. If the ad says that the ability to use a particular technique or software is desirable and you have this skill, be sure to demonstrate it.
Choose designs that you are proud of, but also ones that give the recruiter an indication of the direction you want to take. Present those that best reflect your style, aesthetic and interests. Also, add mood boards, inspirations, brands and artists you follow on a daily basis and whose work inspires you.
What to include in your portfolio?
- a short description of what you do, what you like to create,
- sketches, designs, photos of designed clothes,
- technical drawings, freehand drawings, fashion illustrations,
- photos from shows, competitions, events at which your designs were presented,
- collections from theses, initiatives, contests,
- graphics, illustrations, prints: clothing, accessories or footwear,
- packaging designs for accessories, cosmetics, toys,
- designs made with different techniques, methods,
Tips:
- Limit the number of designs and their variants. The portfolio should not contain more than 20-30 pages. If you have many interesting projects, group them depending on the type, method of execution or type of cooperation.
- The order of materials is also important. The projects that you think are most important should be added first and last.
An example of a portfolio layout:
- Front page
- ‘About me’ section
- Sample works and designs
- CV (optional)
- Contact details
The portfolio should be prepared online and uploaded in a format that is easily accessible to the recipient. Avoid sending it in software such as PowerPoint or as other editable files. You can never be sure that the specifications of the recruiter’s equipment are adequate to display it. Pay attention to file size, as files that are too large may cause problems when trying to open them.
Preferred forms of portfolio:
- PDF file,
- dedicated platform (Behance, wixsite, Issuu),
- your own website/WordPress portfolio/blog,
- social media account (remembering that it should be a dedicated account),
- a link to your drive e.g. Google Drive.
As a supplement, you can also send a link to a platform to sell your work, such as Etsy.
We hope our tips will help you prepare a portfolio that best showcases your style and potential.