Building a Good Portfolio by Making Your Dreams a Reality
We’ve already talked about building a portfolio with personal projects, and I suddenly realized that our dreams are the perfect source for project ideas.
How many times have we dreamed about the perfect house, the perfect job, or even the perfect life? Surely we’re all working hard to make them a reality. In the meantime however, it’s also possible to indulge our fantasies in a productive way.
For instance, I really really really want the new Dell Inspiron 1420. Why can’t I come up with compelling copy meant to convince potential buyers, even if Dell hasn’t contracted me? I imagine it would be great practice.
This isn’t limited to writing. A freelance artist could plan out his dream house, rendering his fantasy in complete detail. More obvious is the contractual programmer who takes the time to finally get his dream web app off the ground.
In short, by using our skills to live out our fantasies—and approach that depends on our field and creativity—we can add some great work to our portfolio. And make ourselves a bit happier at the same time. :)
I’d like to know, fellow freelancers, exactly how can you use your skills to make your dreams a reality? Aside from finding success through them of course (no cheating!).
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POSTED IN: Freelance Writing, Living as a Freelancer, Ramblings of a Freelancer
4 opinions for Building a Good Portfolio by Making Your Dreams a Reality
Bridget
Nov 24, 2007 at 8:39 am
I would love to write compelling copy for a magazine article in the “Speaker” magazine (a nationally-recognized professional speaking publication). If I could write one gripping feature article (that’s published, of course) I could establish a ‘place’ for myself in the industry. Of course, writing that gripping article would begin with, well, beginning.
Rico
Nov 27, 2007 at 9:53 am
Who knows? You could write something when you have the free time, covering a timeless topic. Then, you can perfect it, submit it to a magazine, and get published! Or, it can be a portfolio deal-maker. :)
Temperis
Apr 7, 2008 at 8:49 am
I’m at a point where I have started to write short stories, poetry, and I want to get into writing articles for the hip hop magazines. I’m trying to figure out where to start. What should I do to get myself out there.
Rico
Apr 7, 2008 at 9:02 am
Well, I’m not really familiar with the hip-hop publishing industry, but have you tried writing “feature” articles on prominent personalities? A great guide would be at your target employer. Check out their style and see how you can distinguish yourself within that framework.
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