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Portfolio Tips When Applying for a Job at a Creative Agency
28 September 2023
3 Mins Read
Applying for a position at a creative agency is an exciting move, but the path to securing your dream role requires more than just a generic resume and a collection of unrelated portfolio projects. At Invisible Ink, we’ve encountered countless job applications that fall short due to lack of planning and adherence to basic rules. In this article, we’re offering you a guide to stand out from the crowd and boost your chances of landing that coveted creative job. Our portfolio tips are designed to help you create a compelling presentation of your skills, personality, and potential, enabling you to make a memorable impression on prospective employers.
What am I applying for?
Before delving into the specifics of your portfolio, invest time in understanding the company and role you’re applying for. Tailor your portfolio and resume to resonate with the company’s work, services, and the advertised position. Avoid the pitfall of presenting yourself as a photographer when applying for an animation role. Instead, highlight experiences and projects that align with the job’s requirements and the agency’s expertise. Sounds obvious but we see it very frequently.
Be selective in what you show
Your portfolio is your showcase; it’s the window through which potential employers assess your taste and capabilities. Be strategic in your selection by including your best and most relevant work only. Less is often more, so leave your audience intrigued and eager to know more. Resist the urge to clutter your portfolio with every project you’ve ever worked on. Quality over quantity is the golden rule here.
Write, but not too much
While it’s crucial to provide context for each portfolio project, it’s equally important not to overwhelm your audience with excessive details. Concisely explain the project’s essence, your role, challenges faced, and outcomes achieved. A balance between information and brevity is key. Remember, prospective employers are time-conscious, and an essay on each project might not receive the attention you hope for.
Think practically
Streamline your portfolio’s presentation by naming your portfolio file with your name, not portfolio.pdf as this will be easily lost. Also, consider practicality in terms of file size and format. Keep the file size under 10MB for easy sharing. Ideally, offer a PDF with hyperlinks for a professional touch or provide a website portfolio. Avoid the inconvenience of large file downloads or navigating through disorganised cloud folders.
Grab attention
n a world where attention spans are fleeting, seize the moment to capture the reviewer’s interest. Recognize that creative agencies sift through numerous portfolios daily. You might have less than one minute to make an impact. Infuse your personality, style, and tastes into your portfolio. Let your work not only speak but also resonate with your unique identity.
In the competitive realm of creative agency job applications, a well-crafted portfolio (and resume to match) can be your strongest asset. By following these essential tips, you’ll be better equipped to present yourself as an ideal candidate. Tailor your portfolio, showcase your best and most relevant work, strike a balance between information and brevity, adopt practical presentation practices, and infuse your portfolio with your distinct personality. With Invisible Ink’s guidance, you’re on your way to making a lasting impression and securing your place in the vibrant world of creative agencies.
