Freelance Myth #2: Your Portfolio Should be Made Up of Previous Projects
So you’ve met someone who knows what you’re worth, gives out genuinely interesting projects, and is apparently a joy to work for. Problem is, you think nothing on your portfolio is worth showcasing.
It’s great if your portfolio showcases previous projects. After all, they represent your skills being applied, your talent thriving under real world conditions. But nobody said you should limit yourself to past accomplishments. If you’re sure you can provide what your client needs, but they want proof that you can, there’s nothing wrong with creating something new to appeal to them.
They key here is adaptability. After all, I may write about freelancing, but I’ve also written about technology. And the Olympics. And how women should deal with their loved ones’ ex’s. There’s nothing wrong with concentrating on what you’re good at, but only flexibility allows you to take full advantage of new opportunities as they come.
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POSTED IN: Freelance Myths, Freelance Writing, Marketing Your Skills
6 opinions for Freelance Myth #2: Your Portfolio Should be Made Up of Previous Projects
Vyoma
Apr 5, 2007 at 10:20 am
Hmmm. This was a myth-buster for me. I really thought that a portfolio meant a showcase of previous works.
I am not sure if I can take any art jobs (similar to the ones I put in KalaaLog.com) for two reasons:
1. I do not have enough confidence on the work I do in terms of art
2. I do not have any earlier work I can put on my portfolio
Any specific advice, Rico?
Rico
Apr 5, 2007 at 12:15 pm
To be sure, the definition of a portfolio is “a set of pieces of creative work collected to be shown to potential customers or employers”. Which means it doesn’t have to include just prior works, IMHO.
1. From what I see in KalaaLog, you have a talent for vector art. Perhaps you lack the confidence because you haven’t tried approaching clients? Even if you get rejected, you’ll find out if what you’re offering is market-ready.
2. What about projects for school, friends, and the like? If you really don’t have anything suitable for potential clients, I’m sure you can take the time to create works. Come up with projects you think are relevant to potential clients, complete with specific requirements, and fulfill them.
Vyoma
Apr 6, 2007 at 7:40 pm
Neat pointers, Rico. Thanks. It cleared up some of my cluttered thinking. :)
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