Build Your Portfolio As Novice - Part 2

Last time we dealt with the research-focused aspects about building a solid portfolio as a novice. In this section, we'll discuss how to put together an action plan.

1. Based on the trends and skills you noted in the last section, write down at least 20 project ideas. This is important, as it will allow you to explore different directions and styles - something you'll need in the next step.

2.  Cut this list down to 12. Why twelve? A dozen is a nice even number that you can refine when applying for certain positions. But it also gives you enough material to look more experienced. When refining you list, it's important to look at the following: 1) the cohesiveness of the project themes 2) the scale of skills used - how many new techniques 3) the usefulness of the skills used 4) what order should the projects be in - from most important to least. Or, preferable, sandwich your weakest project between your amazing ones, so that the first and last impressions of your work are positive.

3. Create a timeline. This is important for keeping on task. If you decide on 12 projects, you might be able to decide on 1 project a month. By the end of a year, you'd have a rock solid portfolio. Having a longer period of time per project would allow you to polish the finished project. Or, depending on how much time you have the urgency of needing a portfolio, you might be able to cut that down to a project every 2 weeks. Just make sure you know your skills and how long it takes you to complete a finished, polished project. If you aren't sure, pick one project out of your list and begin to work on it, working around your current schedule. When it's completed, schedule the rest of your 11 ideas.

4. Break up each project into little sections. Doing this will help you with focus and efficiency, because you only have to worry about building one block at a time. Let's look at a web development example.

Let's say I want to replicate the italki.com homepage. First I would establish the main components of the page. I'd create a layout with the essential modules, and then work from there, one element at a time.

Tip: Set aside time per day or per week to work. It may be hard depending on your study/work schedule, so try out a few different times before worrying about your first project.

Don't forget to upload your projects to to a relevant website. Designers and artists may use Behance. Translators should head over to ProZ.com or Translator's Cafe. For those looking for freelance work, Upwork.com and Freelancer.com have portfolio options when you fill our your profile.