As a freelancer, one of the best ways to land a consistent stream of repeat clients is through a well-curated portfolio.
Think of it as something like a digital calling card. Apart from listing your credentials and sharing how to reach you, your portfolio shows two essential things: the evolution and extent of your work and the clients who contracted your services. And if you’re only beginning your freelance career, your portfolio proves you’ve got the chops.
Below are some tips that can help you create a portfolio that will blow potential clients away.
How do digital business cards work?
You can store a digital business card in your smartphone for convenience. If you’ve just attended a meeting, seminar, or event, you can send your digital business card to recent contacts on social media or a community platform. You can also send potential clients your contact information using a QR code and links sent through email and text message.
What kind of digital business card is right for me?
There are three types of digital business cards:
- QR cards are traditional business cards with embedded quick response (QR) codes or computer-generated barcodes that can be scanned with smartphone cameras.
- NFC digital business cards is a traditional business card with an embedded near field communication (NFC) chip that lets you store and exchange contact information as well as open websites, send emails, and make phone calls.
- vCards are fully digital business cards that can be easily shared via email, text, and social media. These cards can be imported into a wide range of contact management applications, making it easier for you to stay top-of-mind with potential clients.
Invest in your own portfolio website
Your portfolio must be able to help you stand out from the sea of freelancers. So, it only makes sense that it should be unique and true to your brand, especially if website development and/or creative design is your expertise. If you can’t build your own website, hire another professional to make you one.
“With your own portfolio website, you’ll be able to showcase your work exactly how you want. This is because you have greater freedom and flexibility. While a pre-designed website template offers some level of customization, your options are limited. In the end, you might not be able to find the template that works for you.”
Tell a story
People often think that portfolios are for showing, not telling, but there should be balance between the two. After all, you can’t expect prospective clients to learn more about the project and your work process by only showing them the output. Walk them through.
- What was the problem you were hired to solve?
- Were there specific requirements you needed to fulfill?
- What were the challenges you had to overcome?
For inspiration: Our favorite portfolio websites
People often think that portfolios are for showing, not telling, but there should be balance between the two. After all, you can’t expect prospective clients to learn more about the project and your work process by only showing them the output. Walk them through.
