Sunday, January 2, 2011

Creating a Job-Worthy PR Portfolio

As we say goodbye to 2010 and welcome 2011, the reality of graduation sets in for May 2011 graduates. So often we are told how important a résumé is in securing an interview, but a good portfolio can really sell a candidate to an employer. Here are a few tips from Public Relations Tactics’s “PR portfolios: Putting your best work forward in the New Year” article on how to produce an ‘A’ portfolio, that’s sure to secure you that PR job:

1. Make it pretty.
A great way to present your samples is in a three ring binder, with samples placed in a clear protective cover. Avoid fancy print and other frills; remember you want the employer to be focused on your work.

2. Stay organized.
Your portfolio should be organized so that the interviewer can easily flip through it. You may want to organize it by campaign. Including tabs or a table of contents will also make the portfolio easier to scan.

3. Variety is the spice of life.
Although you only want to include your best work in your portfolio, you should make sure you have a variety of samples. This will show your potential employer the versatility of your skills. Portfolio pieces include things such as newsletters, PSAs, product placements, case studies and press releases and the coverage they gained.

4. Show off your skills.
Not all interviewers will ask to see your portfolio, but bring it to all interviews. If the interviewer does not ask to see your portfolio, show it to them anyway. This will show initiative and further highlight why you’re the right applicant for the job. Be sure to briefly explain how each sample in your portfolio contributed to the PR campaign. Also, bring extra copies of your portfolio to leave with the interviewer, and have an electronic portfolio on hand.

For more tips on how to put together a great PR portfolio check out this YouTube video from a PR and communications recruiter.

This guest blog was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Shari DaCosta.

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