CAREER PORTFOLIO

Latonya R. ClarkArea Program Specialist, Illinois SCSEP

Can you think of a career & job position where an individual

must have a portfolio?

WHY SHOULDN’T I HAVE A

CAREER PORTFOLIO?

What Is A Career Portfolio?• A career portfolio is a visual representation of your

abilities, skills, capabilities, knowledge, qualities and it represents your potential.

• Physically, it’s a collection of things- tangible materials- that represent work-related events in your life.

• A portfolio provides “evidence” of your potential by demonstrating what you accomplished in the past.

• Your career portfolio provides you with a convenient place to keep records of your professional, personal and educational documentation.

What can a career portfolio do for me?

• A career portfolio can help you prepare for interviews

• Convince others of your skills, abilities and qualities

• Helps you communicate clearly • Showcase your skills• Demonstrates the results of your

work

What can a career portfolio do for me?

• Establish the habit of documenting your accomplishments and results

• Access your own progress in your career development

• Access your own progress in your career development

• Evaluate the patterns in your own work preferences and values

A PORTFOLIO IS NOT A RESUME!

What should go in a portfolio?

(Work-Related)• Core Message• Vision & Professional Goals• Resume • Cover Letter• Professional References• Reference Letters

• Salary History• Salary Requirements• Accomplishments• Awards• Professionals Licenses• Brochures & Flyers

(samples)

What should go in a portfolio?(Education)

• Diplomas, Degrees, Certificates & Licenses• Transcripts• Course Descriptions• Awards• Writing Samples• Workshop & Conferences • Certificates/ evidence of special training (military, private institute,

business, etc.)

What should go in a portfolio?(Activities/ Hobbies)

• Volunteer Activities (volunteer history)

• Organizations joined• Awards• Leadership positions held• Hobbies or interest (time devoted to or photos)• Public speaking/ presentations or performances

How to Create Your Portfolio

• Three ring binder• Plastic sheet protectors for important documents• Table of content tabs• Pouches for additional samples (CD’s, photos or other bulky

items)

QUESTIONS, COMMENTS & CONCERNS