If you don't have an e-portfolio, then you need to make it a priority to get one. An e-portfolio can be your best friend. Not only does it make you accessible 24/7 to potential clients or employers, but it also is a way to keep your work in an organized fashion right at your fingertips, for whenever you need it. It is something that you can add to and build as you grow. And, e-portfolios work for everyone, you can be a writer, an artist, a model, an engineer, or a student. It doesn't matter what your occupation is, having an e-portfolio is the way of the times.

Don't be intimidated, making an e-portfolio can be very basic or it can be very advanced and detailed. Depending on your occupation, the purpose of the e-portfolio and your skill level you can make it just about any way you want. There are programs out there to assist with the building of e-portfolios, students might find it easy to use a program such as word, and simply create folders in which to put assignments and papers based on categories such as grade and subject, or a programmer may create a web-page with links to his or her e-portfolio, the web-page can be their e-portfolio! If you feel you're not up to the task, some people make it their business creating e-portfolios for others, so if you have tried yourself and you aren't happy with your results, you can hire someone to help you.

There are some things to keep in mind when you are making your portfolio, and adding to it. Some guidelines:

You want to select only examples of your best work. Other people will be viewing your portfolio, and this is representative of what you do. Portfolios are used to get jobs, win contracts, gain acceptance to universities, you certainly wouldn't want something less than perfect in your portfolio.

Organize your portfolio strategically in a way that will be most beneficial to your target- this could vary depending on who your target is. But organize it based on experience, or by samples. Make sure that it is user friendly. You may even consider giving a tour of how to view your e-portfolio.

Keep your e-portfolio current and up to date, and make sure you have the right amount of content on your portfolio. Too little, and it looks like you aren't experienced enough, too much and it looks junky. Pay attention to the layout and fonts that you use as well. Try to choose things that highlight the core of your ability. Additionally, you wouldn't want things from ten to 15 years ago on your portfolio. Try to keep things no older than three years.

Keep a balance- this is the tricky part. You want to show your range while focusing on your specialty area. You want to show your creativity, while maintaining a professional look. This isn't really as hard as it sounds.

Always make sure that your contact information is easy to find, and up to date. Make sure that you always have an up to date resume. This could cost you business or opportunities otherwise.

Remember, your e-portfolio is you at your finest. It speaks for you when you are not there to do it yourself. You want to make a great and lasting impression. Keep it up to date and keep it easy to read and use. You never know who will be viewing your work, and what opportunities may arise from it.

Learn more about this author, Amelia Tibbett.
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