How to Create an Online Portfolio: Step-by-Step Expert Guide

What is the most essential thing for a freelancer? Is it sending a killer cold email or making a perfect content strategy? Well, you can’t do these things without a portfolio. Yes, it’s impossible to land your dream project without a relevant portfolio. But how to create an online portfolio? If this question itches you, we are here to rescue you.

As a newbie, many freelancers ignore the fact that they should create a portfolio. Well, there’s a funny thing. According to most rookie freelancers, they don’t have enough projects to include in a portfolio. It’s true, but nobody is going to approach you without checking your work and skills.

There are so many things you can do in that case. For example, doing a couple of internships can open many doors to success. On the other hand, you can also do some practice projects to show off your talent.

Well, that’s not the topic of this article. Whatever you are doing, you need a killer portfolio to grow your freelancing business. And in this article, we will share a step-by-step guide on how to make an online portfolio. But before that, let’s explore some basics.

What is an Online Portfolio?

In simple words, an online portfolio is a collection of your best works and personal information related to your career. For example, if you are a photographer, you have to put all your best photographs in your portfolio. We will share the advantages in the following section before exploring how to make an online portfolio.

Advantages of Creating an Online Portfolio

Now, the big question is; why should you create an online portfolio? The answer is crystal clear in that case. You might know the importance of a portfolio, for offline jobs. Well, it’s exactly that important for an online career. In fact, you can create an online portfolio for offline jobs such as photography or event management. 

Add Value — As we said before, a portfolio is the best way to showcase your previous works. It’s essential when you are in the creative industry. Be it graphic designing or content writing, an online portfolio will add value. 

Catches Everyone’s Attention — Networking is a crucial part of growing your freelancing business. If you have a large network on LinkedIn or Twitter, an online portfolio will give you more leads.

Visibility of Your Skills — Creating a portfolio will help potential clients and recruiters learn more about you. As you list your skills on LinkedIn, you have to showcase them here as well. In fact, you can also attach some certificates that show the relevancy of your skills. 

How to Create an Online Portfolio

So, you have decided to make a portfolio online? Perfect! Read out the following steps, and it will take around 10–15 minutes to create a killer online portfolio. 

Step 1: Choose Your Theme

A theme or template is going to be the foundation of your portfolio. And they are not the same for all professionals. For example, if you are a photographer, you have to focus more on galleries. 

If you want a one-page portfolio, you have to choose a different theme. There are two ways to create an online portfolio: your own website or a free online portfolio. Even though we suggest everyone create a separate website, it’s okay to use a free portfolio during the initial days.

There are some websites for creating an advanced portfolio for free, such as Squarespace, WordPress, Wix, iPortfolio, and Pixpa. Choose the right theme that is suitable for your field.

Step 2: Showcase Your Best Projects

Your previous work is the core content of your portfolio. Simply put, this is the most important step in this “how to create an online portfolio” guide. In that case, you have to showcase the best projects to date.

Include a separate page to showcase your work as it increases attraction. Besides adding some killer projects, you have to keep updating the portfolio with your recent projects. It will show visitors that you are active there.

Step 3: Include The Right Content 

Many newbies struggle when it comes to adding the right content to a portfolio. Whether you are a freelancer or a job professional, you have to keep your portfolio clean and compact. Besides showcasing your best work and skills, you need to write a proper bio. Including past experience is another plus point to attract more potential clients. 

Step 4: Use HQ Images

Image is another crucial part of an online portfolio. Well, everyone doesn’t need to add a lot of photos. However, adding your photos is necessary as most potential recruiters and clients prefer it for online projects. 

Try to add high-quality images to get the best result. And if you are from the photography field, it’s the most important step to building a pro-level portfolio.

Step 5: Work on SEO 

Search engine optimization is an underrated step when it comes to the ‘how to create an online portfolio’ guide. Whether you use a third-party platform for free portfolio-making or build your own site, you have to work on SEO.

Adding the right keywords, meta tags, and meta description is essential to increasing your online visibility. Plus, off-page SEO is needed in some cases. If you don’t have enough knowledge, you can even hire an SEO expert.

Step 6: Add Honest Testimonials

It’s time to highlight your professionalism with client testimonials. In this case, testimonials are as important as previous projects. On the other hand, you can add a project if it gets featured somewhere. An ideal online portfolio looks good with 2-3 client reviews. Don’t add too many testimonials.

Step 7: Add Contact Details

Last but not least, you have to be clear about the contact details. In this case, add your business email, phone number, and other information. Plus, adding social media is also essential.

Pro Tip: Make your portfolio responsive, as you will receive a large amount of mobile traffic. 

Wrapping Up

Creating an online portfolio is awesome, especially during your initial days. However, you have to remember that you have to grow your portfolio along with your career. So, keep it updated as much as possible. In that case, choose a template that is easily customizable.