An electronic portfolio can be used to your advantage because an employer can review your portfolio whenever it is convenient, not just during the interview. You can present your electronic portfolio on the Internet, a link to a cloud-based folder, USB drive, or via email.
Whichever way your electronic portfolio is delivered to an employer, if you include an email link, then they can contact you easily by clicking on the link and typing in a message to you. It is a good idea to provide that link, as you want to make it easy for the employer to contact you for an interview!
To create your electronic portfolio, complete your traditional portfolio first. Then, include your files (Microsoft Word, .pdf, .jpg etc.) in electronic form. You may need to use Adobe Acrobat for some large graphic file (.pdf) Finally, you may need to use a scanner to scan some of your pictures, newspaper articles, and certificates for inclusion. There are many more programs you can use to create your eportfolio besides Word. See the following link, for a more modern look at eportfolios today. http://electronicportfolios.org
As with a traditional portfolio, be sure that your electronic portfolio is well organized. If you post your portfolio on the Internet, be sure to put the web address on your resume and in your cover letter heading. Obviously, you must avoid placing any personal information whatsoever (other than your name) anywhere on your website. Never include links to inappropriate websites in your electronic portfolio. Other web security concerns will apply if your electronic portfolio is online, especially if you include a way to contact you. Always be wise about Internet predators.
Just as you did for your traditional portfolio, make sure that your initial cover page, or homepage, is clean and enticing. Be sure to have friends view the page from their computers before it is finalized. Remember that not all computers read fonts, colors, and images in the same way.
ePortfolio Presented in Prezi, SlideRocket, SlideShare, or Google
Now that you have completed your portfolio, be sure to practice presenting it. Ask a family member or friend to listen to how well you tell your story. The best portfolio in the world won’t help you, if you don’t know how to use it effectively during an interview! So, practice, practice, and practice!
However, used correctly, not only can your portfolio help you answer some interview questions, it is also your opportunity to demonstrate to an employer just how terrific you are. You’re not just telling them; you’re showing them! You will need to update your portfolio regularly with your new accomplishments, experience, and skills as you gain them.
Your portfolio will then continue to be a valuable tool throughout your advanced education and your chosen career.
