Using a career portfolio

Many of you have probably never heard of a career portfolio, and those of you who have probably think that it is something that art students showcase their work in when going to interviews.  How very wrong you are!  EVERYONE who is looking for a job should have a portfolio, and bring it to every job interview you have.

A career portfolio is a place for you to compile anything you have done at school or in previous positions that you are proud of and want to show to potential employers.  It is used during an interview to provide proof to claims that you make about your skills and experience.  A portfolio is also a good way to showcase any awards, certificates or reference letters you have received.

Ryerson University’s Career Services has complied a list of things you should you include in a portfolio.

• Statement of originality - This is where you claim everything in the portfolio as your own.  This is also the place that you should request confidentiality from anyone who views it.
• Work philosophy - What you stand for and what you believe in.  This is a good place to stand out from the rest of the crowd and let your interviewers know why you are a good candidate for the position.
• Career goals - This is your place to let your interviewers know what you want to accomplish, and that you are looking for a career and not just a job.  Avoid using broad statements and get into specifics.
• Resume – Always include your resume!  Make sure that it is error-free and is tailored to the job you are interviewing for.
• Skills Section - This is where you put examples of your work.  If you claim that you can write a business plan, then put an example of one.  Tab off different sections for each skill and include a couple examples in each.  This is your chance to prove to you interviewer that you actually have the skills you claim to have.
• Certificates, diplomas, awards – This is where you put copies (not originals) of all your diplomas, degrees and certificates.  If you have received any awards, put them here too!
• Community Service - You can include samples of work completed while volunteering or letters of recommendation, etc.
• Professional Membership/Certifications - Again, put any certifications you have, or memberships to associations you belong to.  You can include any document that confirms your involvement or membership in professional associations.
• References – This is where you include your list of references, including all pertinent contact information.  You may want to create a short biography or profile of each to explain who the person is and their relationship to you.

All of this information should be neatly displayed in clear plastic sheets in a 3-ring binder.  Be sure to separate each section, letting your interviewer know what they are looking at.