Basic Portfolio Guidelines

There is an increased need for people to have a professional portfolio (especially for an executive); the visual appeal a portfolio offers is highly important. Rather than a notebook, I would suggest finding a professional-looking zippered three ring binder. Office Max and Office Depot tend to have a good selection of varying styles, both vinyl and leather options.

Try to find one with a D-ring type of three ring binder - it will keep the materials upright when presenting the portfolio contents. Other supplies you should have: non-glare sheet protectors, tabbed dividers, professional looking paper (for section pages), card stock (for mounting photos or creating captions).

Like an effective resume, a portfolio needs to be tailored to the field or industry that is being targeted. You will want to collect a variety of work samples that can help demonstrate the skills and experience you have listed on your resume. Because employers are interested in learning about an individual's personal attributes and work style, examples that illustrate this can also be a good addition. Portfolio samples do not need to be restricted to paid employment, as we acquire skills and accomplishments from volunteer and community activities too. Encourage yourself to look at your calendar. How is the day spent? What types of activities are you engaged in daily, and at different times of the year? What are some challenges you have faced or problems you have solved? Begin locating and collecting work samples that reflect the skills and activities you enjoy.

Typical Contents:

• Cover Page
• Table of Contents
• Section Dividers, based on the Table of Contents
• Resume
• Letters of reference
• Positive performance evaluations
• Certificates of degrees completed and continuing education classes completed
• A school transcript (can be optional)
• Anything that reflects involvement in professional organizations
• Mission statement
• Management or leadership philosophy
• Goal Statements
• Anything that depicts leadership, communication, organization, strategic planning, financial management, marketing, teamwork, positive interpersonal traits, technology skills, etc. (the contents will vary depending on the person's experience and the industry being targeted). Testimonials/thank you's (from clients, colleagues, supervisors, etc.)
• Pictures that demonstrate skills or involvement
• Newspaper clippings
• Samples of projects or reports
• Awards/honors
• Reflective statements/captions

Consider having several copies of the main pages of interest so that you can give the samples to the interviewer(s) without ruining your originals. Be sure everything is easy to get to and easy to take out if you need to do so.