Your folio can be your best friend - the tool that lands you a top job or your worst enemy. If you are wondering why you're not succeeding in your hunt for a creative position, maybe your portfolio needs revisiting. Here are a couple of key things I believe are essential in presenting your work.It doesn't matter whether you have a hard copy or electronic folio or both it's all about creating a memorable first impression to lead you on the path to your dream job.
Make sure your folio has an overall design look and take the time to consider visual impact. I find the most appealing folios have simplistic clean layouts that allow the work to speak for itself. Carefully consider your presentation. Ensure that your work is current, there are no dog-eared pages and absolutely no plastic bags with loose samples. Also be prepared to talk your interviewer through the process on each of your pieces of work.
For electronic folios a good measure is 15 pieces of your most outstanding work. It is absolutely essential to keep file size to a minimum, less than 5 MB is ideal. First impressions are vital and you will make a terrible impression if you crash a busy Creative Director's computer! So you've got the basics covered and you're wondering what you can do to standout. If photography or illustration are your forte include a small sample as it will show the scope of your creative talents. Include a range of typographic solutions and order your work for maximum impact.Start with your second best piece to hook your viewer and then end with your best piece to leave a lasting impression.
Consider labeling your work as it will take away any misguided assumptions and show your exact involvement on a project. Testimonials from colleagues and past employers are also a great idea.Whatever creative gem you come up with remember it's about engaging your viewer and showing your personality. And lastly don't forget to have fun with it.
This post is a summary of an article that appeared in the August issue of Campaign Brief Magazine WA.
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