I have been looking for jobs that relate to my career recently since this season at B&G is about to end. The big thing that jobs are looking for with graphic designers? Portfolios, which for me can be intimidating.

Making a portfolio for me isn’t the difficult part. I can easily gather some of my favorite pieces to put into one place. In fact, I love doing this part. Gathering my work to show to other people is so much fun to me. Creating a portfolio doesn’t need to be just for jobs. It can be for showing to family and friends to flaunt the countless hours of learning and designing you did to make your designs. That aspect of portfolios is amazing.

However, once the portfolio is made, I always overthink. What if my portfolio isn’t good enough? Could I replace this project with another one? Does this show of my skills as best as possible? And, what if they don’t like my portfolio? It’s always difficult putting together the last part of your portfolio with these thoughts floating around your head. The world is in need of many great designers, but it’s a competitive world out there. Many other designers are also trying to get that dream job you also could be applying for.

I have to put these thoughts aside though when I submit my portfolio and give them the best work that I have to offer. Even though I get these nervous thoughts before submitting a portfolio, it always turns into good thoughts knowing I just submitted the best projects I have ever done, and projects that represent who I am as a designer.

So, a little bit of advice to take away. Put your best foot forward! The worst that an employer could say is no when looking at your portfolio and turning you down for a job offer. It may hurt being turned down for your best work, but there’s a good fix. Show off your portfolio to friends and family, they’d love to see your work. I promise, you’ll get lots of compliments and affirmations from them, and maybe even your next project!

TC