Architecture Portfolios: 6 Tips
Architecture portfolios are essential tools for an
architectural student or professional. In some cases it's the only real
"snap-shot" of your talent and experience that potential employers or
school admissions offices will ever see. In all cases it's an
opportunity for a sparkling first impression. Utilize the tips below to
make your first impression unforgettable.
Tip #1: Choosing a Design
The type of portfolio you need will depend on how you intend to use it. Are you:
- looking for an internship,
- applying for school,
- applying for your first job,
- looking for a new job or
- looking for freelance opportunities?
There's no right or wrong way to organize your career portfolio but
to make it a useful tool, determine its purpose first. Then organize
your portfolio to sell your talents as potential student, first time
employer or whatever career goal you're facing, featuring the projects
that will appeal to the portfolio viewers.
Tip #2: Choosing a Presentation Medium
Consider the type of presentation you want your career portfolio to
provide for anyone viewing it. You can prepare a portfolio that:
- can be viewed on-line,
- used as a presentation in a face-to-face interview,
- is a hard-copy leave behind or application attachment or
- as a collection of samples for a potential client to view.
In many cases you'll need a versatile portfolio that you can adjust
into more than one medium. Choose the form that you'll need immediately
and most frequently first. Once it's finished and available to use,
knock out the other forms one at a time.
Tip #3: Include a Variety of Skill-Representing Samples
Portfolios should show off all the different kinds of projects you've
worked on and the scope of your skill set. Concentrate on providing a
variety of your best samples. That usually means being willing to edit
out the samples that may be your personal favorites but not your top
work features. Organize them in a foundational manner so that the
skills clearly show development of ability over time.
Tip #4: Include Career Development
Potential schools, employers and clients want to work with architects
that are current and ambitious. Include any continuing education,
career development or professional associations you have taken part in
to give your viewers a clear picture of the motivated, hardworking,
up-to-date professional you are. Make sure this is an area that you can
update and add to as your career progresses.
Tip #5: Provide Visual Recommendations
Instead of waiting for the portfolio viewer to decide if you're worth
requesting professional references, bring it directly to them. Have
your top references available as part of your portfolio to show
potential employers, clients and administrators that you have made
tangible impressions on those you've worked or studied with to date.
Review these recommendations periodically and keep them current.
Tip #6: Let Your Portfolio Be An Example of Your Architectural Style
Simple, clean, clear style that has vision, insight and is well-built
is what your portfolio should represent. Forget fancy smoke-and-mirrors
portfolio design that may trick employers into looking twice. Let your
work speak for itself.
