Why Portfolio?
Imagine this: You’ve just completed a 14-week intensive coding bootcamp. In that time, you’ve not only learned three technology stacks but also how to be a self-sufficient programmer. You are now ready to start your job search. But wait! How are you going attract future employers and build a community of connections? How do you showcase all the tech skills that you have spent the past three and a quarter months learning? You’re welcome to ask! I have a personal portfolio website.
What is a Portfolio?
Portfolios are not resumes. Portfolios are a way to back up all the skills you have listed on your resume. It is also a way to showcase your work. It is your chance to show potential employers and clients what you can do. Your portfolio is your chance to define and build your brand as a technology professional. Your brand is an important part of your identity as developer. Employers will be drawn to you because of your brand.
The components of a strong portfolio
Portfolios come in many sizes and shapes, but the minimum you should have is the following:
About Me: Include your name, a photograph, your title, and a paragraph or two about yourself, what you have done, and where you want to go next. You shouldn’t be afraid of digging deeper into your portfolio and spending meaningful time crafting your narrative. This is an important part in developing your brand. Share your unique qualities with your readers to make them stand out.
Section on projects: This section is the reason you have a portfolio. You’ll want it to be a starring section! You can display your entire list of programming projects, but you will still want to highlight a few. You can get your viewers excited about your projects with quick video demos, GIFS or images.
Contact me section: Every portfolio that is successful will have a section where viewers can reach you. Make sure you have your LinkedIn, GitHub and Email addresses available.
Your portfolio should reflect your personality and style as a developer. Portfolios are about demonstrating your technical skills and creativity as developers.
Responsive design is essential: As more consumers and websites go mobile, so should your website! Make sure your portfolio site is responsive and mobile-friendly by learning about media queries.
Your custom web URL: Just like your portfolio, your URL should reflect your personal style. It is highly recommended that you purchase your own domain. Keep it professional. For some suggestions on domain names, see the ‘Portfolio Resource’ section below.
Portfolios can be simplified and made in a few clicks. Think about your audience when designing your portfolio. Make sure you have the most important information (projects, contact information), within a few clicks.
Appealing layout and visual design: There are hundreds upon hundreds of free templates available online. Important note: If you use a free template, make sure to customize it in any way you like. You can still make it yours, but credit must be given to the original creator.
Portfolio Resources
Here are some resources we share with Coding Dojo students. These resources will hopefully be of assistance to you in building and creating your own developer portfolio.
Host your portfolio using GitHub Pages
Register custom domain names starting at $8/year
Screen capture your computer screen to make a GIF
Bootstrap portfolio templates
Additional Resources
Staying “Game Ready” during your job search
Digital Age Job Search
Tech Job Tips from a Recruitmenter: Go From Applied to Hired