If you’re a freelancer or wish to be one, you must have heard the term “portfolio” several times already. But does this confuses you or prevent you from starting your freelancing journey?
In this article, I’ll be sharing what a content writing portfolio is and how you can stand out from other freelancers by building a portfolio that wins clients.
Before we begin, it is important that you know what a portfolio really means.
Well, a portfolio is a collection of your past work and reflects your expertise that you show to a prospect with the hope of getting started on a project that matches their requirements.
Just like every student requires a resume or CV to get internships and jobs, freelancers and professionals require a portfolio to showcase their work.
The core difference is that a resume focuses on your degrees, qualifications, and certifications. At the same time, a portfolio focuses on your work and expertise, which in my opinion, is a better measure to evaluate if you’re a great fit for any role.
Now, if you’re thinking a portfolio simply means a collection of all your past work, it can be, but it wouldn’t make you stand out.
To win projects or clients in a world full of freelance writers, you need to showcase something more than just work. Hence, building a writing portfolio is a must for you if you want to make a career out of content writing.
So, let us sneak a peek at 7 things you should include in your portfolio. Although the examples are specifically based on “how to create a content writing portfolio,” the elements would remain the same for any other professional as well.
Table of Contents
6 Elements of an Impressive Content Writing Portfolio
Let’s have a look at some of the most important things you should have in your portfolio to make it stand out.
Brief Introduction
The first part of your portfolio should contain some information about you — who you are, what you offer, and who you serve. It is important to give them a clear idea and whether you are a right fit for the role. But make sure you keep it concise and not make it an autobiography.
Work Samples
This is the main ingredient of your portfolio. But this is where many freelancers make mistakes. They copy-paste their samples into the portfolio, making it too lengthy and messy. Some freelancers add too many samples, while others don’t add any samples in the related niche.
Make sure you add links to your best work samples. Also, ensure that it aligns with your services and the project you’re looking to work on.
Also Read: 5 Simple Steps to Becoming a Successful Freelance Content Writer Without Any Experience
Case Studies
If you have some experience already and your clients have seen great results, your portfolio is the place to show them off! Add a few lines about the projects or detailed case studies for your prospects to learn about your expertise. This is what a lot of people miss out on. Trust me; it helps you stand out.
Testimonials
Testimonial is yet another important thing your freelance writing portfolio should contain. If you’ve done an internship or worked for someone already, ask them for a text-based or video testimonial and add it to your portfolio. Why? Because it would help your prospect trust you and your services.
Pro tip: Work for FREE if you’re just starting out and collect a testimonial in exchange. Nobody bothers to ask you if you worked for free or not.
Additional Achievements
If you got recognized/featured somewhere, make sure to add it to your portfolio as it has a positive impact and shows your expertise. You can also add any other achievements like awards or features.
For example, if you won a writing contest in school or college, mention it! Little things can make huge impacts.
Call To Action
Just showcasing your work won’t help. Don’t let the prospects think about what they need to do next. Tell them what you expect — an email? A discovery call? Or what?
Clearly mention your email address or give them a link to book a meeting with you to take it forward.
Also Read: Secret Tips to Build a Successful Freelancing Business by Komal Ahuja
Best Platforms to Create a Freelancing Portfolio
Now that you know what all you need to include in a portfolio, it is important to learn where to create one. You can make one as a PDF, Google Drive, or on any free website.
Honestly, a website like Wix works the best for writers.
The two next best websites for content writing portfolio building include Canva and WordPress.
Content Writing Portfolio Samples
“Aastha, everything sounds great, but I’m still unsure what a real portfolio looks like.”
Below are some content writing portfolio examples that would give you a clear idea and help you incorporate the above elements practically.
Aastha Kochar (Yay, that’s your own girl, hahaha! )
These are three freelancer portfolio samples that you can take a look at to understand what elements I was talking about above and create your own by seeking inspiration from these or those of your favorite freelancers.
I hope you understand what a content writer’s portfolio contains after looking at freelancer portfolio samples and analyzing how to write a portfolio.
Let me know in the comments what all you have included in your portfolio.