If you’re seeking work in a creative industry, having some form of digital portfolio is a non-negotiable… As a uni grad with limited ‘real-world’ experience, creating a professional online presence that showcases your uni work is an excellent way to help you get that first job or freelance contract.

In addition to utilising platforms like LinkedIn to promote your skill set and achievements, adding an online portfolio to your career toolkit is invaluable within creative sectors.

A portfolio helps you attract attention, and gives you a platform to demonstrate your talents to a worldwide audience, 24/7. This accessibility allows prospective employers or clients to view samples of your work, quickly and easily online. And who knows, they may even find you before you have to apply!

Even if you don’t have a large body of paid material to showcase, you can include pieces you created at uni or while on work placement (with permission from your employer). At the same time, you’re demonstrating the initiative, professionalism and passion you’ll bring to any venture or workplace.

Portfolio platforms are designed to be easy to use – you don’t need to be a coding genius to create something that reflects your unique style. There’s usually a choice of subscriptions to suit your needs and budget – from a basic free or low-cost option, to an enhanced premium one.

So, take a look at this article for ideas on putting together an attention-grabbing portfolio. Then explore the selection of popular online portfolio sites below, and get started:

• Behance states that it is the leading online platform to showcase and discover creative design work. It’s part of the Adobe family and syncs with Adobe Portfolio.
• Dribble describes itself as ‘show and tell for designers’ – a community answering the question, “What are you working on?”
• Carbonmade is home to over one million visually creative portfolios. It boasts a site that is hassle-free and easy to use.
• Journo Portfolio is a portfolio site for journalists, bloggers and writers.
• For the independently minded, Squarespace, WordPress and Wix are website builders that, while not portfolio sites, can be used effectively to promote your work.