In the beginning of the transition to full-time writer, I would choose a few of what I considered my better articles and provide links to them whenever I was required to provide samples of my published works. But I quickly learned a portfolio is much easier and more professional in appearance. My original portfolio was a simple Word document in list format with links to three published article in each of the topic areas I focused on. I also had several scanned documents showcasing my print articles that I put into a file. Both were easily updated when needed and sent via email to any clients.
For Print Pieces: If your print pieces are not available online, you can create a portfolio in two ways to show perspective clients.
1) You can purchase a binder which plastic page protectors and include a clipping in each protector.
2) You can scan copies of your print pieces into your computer and create a file. Organize them in chronological order. This file can be sent via email as an attachment or can be uploaded to your site portfolio or fan page.
Online Portfolios: There are three options for creating a portfolio. All are good ideas; it is all about personal preference.
1) Create a Word document. The document should be set up like a resume, with your contact information at the top of the page. From here, you will compile a list of your writings. List the site/publication, followed by the documents title and ending with the date published. This list can be chronologically, by writing topic, or by publication/site. At the title, insert the actual hyperlink to the piece. Everything you have ever written does not need to be included. However, include a variety of writing type, style, topics, sites and publications to show diversity.
2) Create a website/blog devoted entirely to your freelance writing portfolio of published works. You can set it up however you chose. Here you can upload copies of print pieces, include a fifty word introduction and link to each online article as well as a bio and resume. All personal information, except for a contact email or work phone number, should be excluded. This is the method I chose because there is not a limit to the amount of work I can showcase here. Word documents and fan pages can look crowded and hard to navigate if too much information is included. My Word portfolio is being transferred to a site slowly but surely. One link and any clients can view my professional information, see writing samples and read my published articles. This is also a good method for having clients find you.
3) The third method of creating an online portfolio uses Facebook to create a fan page for yourself. This method combines two important parts of a successful freelance writing career: marketing and showcasing. Print articles can be uploaded here as well as listing links to your online works. Your resume can be included but once again, personal info should be removed.
If you decide to create your portfolio using Word or a blog/site, you can still create a Facebook fan page. Recently, several of my fellow writers have informed me that many writing applications are asking for links to Facebook fan pages. I have not created one for myself but it is on my to do list.
I am having fun creating a blog all about my writing career and style. I'll post the link when its completed. :)
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