I’ve seen this question come up in a few Facebook groups I’m in, and it’s important one. As a writer and editor, it’s actually pretty rare that I get a byline. That may be off-putting to some, but I don’t think of it in a negative way. I think of what I do just as anyone else would, that I’m providing a service to a brand or professional. Plus, unless someone is hiring me to author blog posts on their website (as me, not them or their brand), it’s not something I’m parading around the internet. It’s my writing or editing, sure, but it isn’t me. Nevertheless, I still need to offer samples of my work when it’s requested by potential clients or if I see job listings I’d like to apply to. So, how to create a portfolio when half of your work is private? Where does your name come in? How much is too much information to put on a portfolio website?
It’s tough. While I have my own process and opinions, it’s ultimately up to you to decide what and how you’ll present this information in your portfolio. With that in mind, here’s what I suggest:
Have a public version and a private version
It’s a little more work, but not as much as it sounds. Start with the “full” portfolio first, the one with as much detail as you can that you can send in with job applications or if requested, and use that information to create a more simple version for your website. I suggest having a website that has a few links to work you feel comfortable publishing (and make sure to list your role and collaborators if necessary, or if your role was private, you could simply mention that you were part of the project, and leave it to employers to inquire if they’d like). If you’ve worked for big companies or name brands, usually just the logo or job title is compelling enough to draw readers in. You can be more specific when you send along your resume or in an interview or call.
Honor your contracts
If you signed an NDA (non-disclosure agreement) or any contract that states how you can share your work, honor it. Trust me, no one needs the information bad enough. At least you’ll prove that you can be trusted.
Be transparent with employers
If there’s a reason you’re hesitating to share certain information, let employers or prospective clients know that you can only share x part of the project. If you’re not able to give enough samples to build confidence in your work, you can always offer to complete a test or exercise that proves your skills.
Create your own samples
If you know for sure that most of your work is too private to share on the internet, you can always create samples on your own. If you’re a writer, I do suggest writing your own blog so that you can point to it as a nice example of the writing you do in your own voice. But you can create samples in any field you’re in! You’re a creative professional, you already know what to do. :)
Has anyone else struggled with how to create a portfolio like this?