The perfect writing portfolio is one that is both creative and unique. But how do you go about creating one? And what should you include? We’ll tell you everything you need to know.
The Perfect Portfolio
An excellent writing portfolio should be a great reflection of your creative voice, but also a document of your work. A solid portfolio will demonstrate your mastery of English and the skills that make you a great writer. Within that body of work, you should include everything from short stories to long poems to give the reader a true sense of your creative spirit. In today’s world, the perfect writing portfolio should be both a strong reflection of your creative self and also a strong selling point for your future job applications.
The Need For A Creative Writing Portfolio
While most jobs nowadays will expect you to have a formal education and some experience, a lot of jobs still require previous work experience. In a lot of cases, employers will value your portfolio highly as it provides them with fresh content to choose from, and it shows that you have the drive and ability to consistently produce quality work. With that in mind, it is essential that you secure a copy of your writing portfolio before you begin applying for jobs. When searching for jobs online, you will come across a variety of possibilities; however, most of these opportunities will require that you submit your work through a formal channel. This can often times be a lengthy and tedious process, and it keeps you from applying for some of the more exciting and creative opportunities out there. If you want to be considered for those positions, you will need to have a copy of your portfolio to submit along with your application.
What To Include In Your Portfolio
Now that you have your copy of your writing portfolio in hand, you can begin considering what to include in it. As mentioned earlier, the perfect portfolio should be a strong reflection of your creative voice, and it should also serve as a strong selling point for your future job applications. For that reason, you should include a variety of texts, from short stories to long poems, both fiction and non-fiction. Within those bodies of work, you should include the following:
- A short story or novel you have published.
- A long poem you have published.
- 3-5 essays on various topics.
- A few articles from reputable publications
- Fiction: This includes all the short stories and novels you have published. While it would be great to be able to say that every piece of fiction you include in your portfolio demonstrates your skill, that would be an unrealistic expectation. What you want is to include a variety of texts, ranging from short stories to full-length novels, and show that you can write a variety of plot-driven stories with a range of characters. Above all else, you want to demonstrate that you can write the kind of story that will keep your readers engaged.
- Non-Fiction: As the name suggests, this includes all the essays, reviews, and other scholarly articles you have published. For that reason, you should include a variety of texts ranging from (a) history books to (e.g.) parenting guides. Your goal is to show that you can write about a variety of topics with a range of expertise.
- Analysis: This is a broad category that includes all the academic papers, dissertations, and other written materials you have produced in college or university. Your goal is to show that you can tackle complex assignments and produce high-quality work.
- Reflection: This is a vital part of your portfolio and it demonstrates that you have taken the time to think deeply about your writing process and how you can become a better writer. For that reason, you should include a few essays or lectures that you have given on various topics, including but not limited to:
- The writing process.
- How to improve your writing style.
- How to become a stronger writer.
- How to become a confident speaker.
- How to become a better listener.
- Craft: This includes all the tips and tricks you have learned about writing, from (i) grammar and spelling to using effective vocabulary and structuring a compelling plot. Above all else, you want to show that you can write a strong piece that will engage your readers and compel them to learn more about your writing style. To that end, you should include a section of your portfolio that is dedicated to this skill.
- Career Development: This includes all the training and the experience you have acquired, both (i) personally and through your education. For that reason, you should include a section of your portfolio that is dedicated to this skill.
- Additional Materials: This includes all the awards and accolades you have garnered, both (i) academic and professional, and any other materials that may be of interest to a potential employer. Your goal is to show that you have the ability to self-promote and can be effective in doing so.
Include whatever suits your creative writing style and shows that you can write a variety of texts. As a general rule of thumb, the more variety you can include, the stronger your overall portfolio will be. Don’t worry too much about which ones are the most “esteemed” in your field or the ones that will make your professor or advisor happiest. Your goal is to create the perfect portfolio that will speak to the reader and convey your creative spirit.
How To Structure Your Portfolio
Depending on how much content you have included in your portfolio so far, you might want to consider structuring it in a way that makes it easier for the reader to navigate. For that reason, you should make use of the following:
- Section headers.
- Sub headings.
- Spacing.
- Bulleted lists.
- Paragraphs.
- The work itself.
Whatever makes your content easier to read and understand is vital, especially if you want to secure your job in the long run. In the body of your work, you want to include everything from short stories to long poems to give the reader a true sense of your creative voice. Ensure that you have included enough content for the reader to understand what you are trying to achieve, but you also do not want to overload them with too much information.
The Perfect Cover Letter
Your cover letter is an important part of your application package and it serves as the first impression you will make on the reader. For that reason, you should make sure that your cover letter is error-free and compelling. As a general rule of thumb, you should write your cover letter before you begin applying for jobs. Upon receiving your application package, the employer will generally have a copy of your cover letter and will be able to see everything you have to offer, including your writing portfolio. Your cover letter should:
- Introduce yourself
- State your purpose for applying for the job
- Praise the employer for having taken the time to consider your application
- Request additional information if necessary
- Acknowledge the decision- maker for their time in considering your application
- Indicate whether you are interested in the job or would like additional information
Depending on the type of position you are applying for, your cover letter might also include a brief summary of your work experience, (including your current job title). In addition to that, you should include anything else that is pertinent to the position you are applying for. Above all else, you want to make sure that your cover letter is compelling enough to convince the employer to read your entire application package.
When it comes to writing a compelling cover letter, it can be tricky to find the right words. Once you have done that, the rest is but a formality. In order to make it easier for the reader, you should write your letter in the third person, citing specific details about the position you are applying for. In addition to that, you should write your letter in a way that is concise, yet comprehensive. Use your cover letter to sell yourself and leave no stone unturned in your quest to secure that dream job.