Letters Vol.02 - Not Every Project Is Your Portfolio Piece
This weeks 'Letter to a Young Designer' is all about curating your work and when to say 'No' to the portfolio ;)
Dear younger me,
You were so eager to showcase everything. Every project, every new client, and every little design felt like it needed to be popped into your portfolio and shared on Instagram or Pinterest.
You thought a packed portfolio meant you were a successful designer.
More projects = more credibility, right?
You said "yes" to publishing projects that weren't aligned with you, to have something fresh that could attract the next possible client. Friend, you knew when you weren't in love with a client’s style… but you shared it anyway.
Here's the truth, young Angela: Your portfolio isn't a museum of every single thing you've ever done, especially as a newbie.
You needed to view it as a carefully curated space that tells the story of where you're going, not just where you've been.
What changed?
You realized that it's okay to have projects that simply pay the bills or help you learn something new without needing to put them on Instagram {or your site}.
Not every client is your dream client, and not every project is portfolio-worthy.
What did you do?
You chose projects that aligned with your style, values, and the businesses you wanted to attract.
You created conceptual (mock) brands to showcase what you could create. *Note: Make it clear they are conceptual and not real clients ;)
You understood that your portfolio is a marketing tool to tell a story. It's about attracting the right clients, not just any client.
You embraced the idea that less can be more and that quality always trumps quantity.
You started to really see that the projects you put into your portfolio ATTRACTED the clients that align with them.
But don't be mad that you shared every blush, gold, calligraphy, and feminine-styled wedding brand you created. Although it led to booking even more of them, it also opened your eyes to sharing with intention.
So, Ask yourself:
Does it align with your dream clients? Does it represent your current style and skill level? And in the words of Marie Kondo, does it bring you JOY?
Tell me…
What's one project in your portfolio that you're unsure about? Because, if you're on the fence.. let’s just hold off ;)
P.S. I pull out my Brand Style Workbook on myself to make sure I'm sticking to my ideal client profile, values, and brand essence.