Applying for a design role can be tricky, what do you put in your portfolio that is going to highlight your best work- your best self?

Knowing how to showcase your work in a clear, succinct and proficient manner, is not always easy

I am currently going through this with my partner who is a senior graphic designer/ illustrator and is extremely fussy about what his good work ACTUALLY is.

If you have uploaded on your website all your work then to be blunt, maybe that is not your best work.

Creatives will agree with me here showcasing your best work takes courage, it takes self-love, self-belief and divine timing might come into play too.

The first step is realising your work can be read as flat and soulless and something to just scroll through looking for that moment that right person “gets it” feels inspired and thinks yes we need this person on board!

If you’ve built up an amazing array of creative designs, you’re probably wondering why potential employees and consultants in that space aren’t head hunting you- purely for all your work in your portfolio.

Even if you have the sleekest, most awesome creative portfolio, there is a whole lot more to take into consideration.

To help you designers, illustrators, and creatives

We’ve assembled a few tips to help guide you to building out up your best portfolio and showcasing you and your pressure points as a creative.

As I mentioned before a portfolio is to share your best work, but what if your best work hasn’t been created yet?

Your branding for a coffee shop 2 years ago may not be relevant to your potential employer, but does it show you are a multi-disciplinary designer and branding and storytelling is your strong point?

To help you prepare for that that next role – why not mock up some ideas have something to show have something that sparks an interest you will come out on top of other hopefuls.

Like in Masterchef - don't put anything on the plate that can't be eaten - same goes for a portfolio- see where I'm going here?

Think about the core elements of design and why you do it

Apart from being a great storyteller, why does the creative process flow for you? Can your work demonstrate this creative process behind the design? As well as the journey for the user?

Sharing your story means showcasing the reasoning behind your designs, and the consideration that was given to each element- The old mind map can help here, jot down ideas and inspirations and what has resonated.

The Google logo famously has more than 2,000 words written up on it by their design team, and it’s this type of mentality that creates great design.

Refrain from using the words, “I”, “me” or “mine”, in your design portfolio. It’s important to recognise that professional language in this sense does not entail ownership.

All too often we see portfolios of UX designers showcasing their work with, “This is my design for X and Y”, or “I created this back in 2014”. Design can be more powerful when removal of the personal tie to the creator is established ensuring functionality is front of mind.

Put pen to paper, get out your watercolors, buy that can of spray paint, or pick up that camera

Take what you do off a computer and make it with your hands- whether you do this for inspiration, or to balance yourself out .. in the words of Nike -just do it

Think of your portfolio- when you do have that craft afternoon you’ll be able to demonstrate your ability to create amazing designs your thought process, your magic, which will in turn help create attention and awareness around your capabilities and talents

Keep your design portfolio concise, powerful and top notch it is not a space to flood with every little achievement ever keep that mystery as someone who makes art.

Always put your best foot forward, and be prepared when it comes to the interview. So you can somewhat sit back and let your work speak for itself.

Good luck in your next UX, design or creative journey.