Create Eye-Catching Portfolios Using These 2 Free Tools
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Crafting an Impressive Portfolio
Finding work as a freelance writer can be quite challenging. It’s common to submit around 50 applications before landing your first job. With a staggering 204 million freelance writers in the UK and US alone, the competition is fierce. To rise above the crowd, one essential tool is your portfolio.
While many emphasize the importance of having a well-designed portfolio to attract clients and build your reputation in the field, few provide guidance on how to create one if you lack design skills. Initially, I opted for a simple PDF to showcase my work, which led to numerous missed opportunities and feelings of frustration and inadequacy. It often left me wondering if I should reconsider my career path.
However, everything changed when I discovered two free platforms that allowed me to create visually appealing portfolios in under 15 minutes—no design expertise required. Whether you specialize in copywriting or content creation, these tools will help you establish an online presence. Let’s explore how these platforms work.
1. Notion
What is Notion?
Notion is a versatile note-taking application that has transformed into a powerful platform for various tasks beyond mere organization.
How to Build Your Portfolio on Notion?
You can easily add text blocks to introduce yourself, showcase your work, write case studies, and include your contact details. For instance, I included a bio section at the top of my portfolio, spicing it up with some emojis for personalization:
Buse’s Portfolio
Once you’ve crafted your introductory section, Notion provides integrated AI tools to enhance your writing, correct grammar, and adjust the tone, effectively replacing multiple tools like Grammarly and Hemingway:
AI on Notion
To display my work samples, I created three gallery sections featuring my landing page copy, social media posts, and spec samples. You can switch between different layout options, such as table, calendar, or list views:
Buse’s Portfolio
Clicking on each project allows readers to delve into detailed case studies. Notion offers a highly organized and professional way to present your work. After building my portfolio on Notion, I secured six interviews in just two weeks.
Final Thoughts on Notion:
- Completely free with no need for website-building skills
- Ability to embed a variety of third-party content, including images, videos, and documents
- Multiple database views for different project types
Add-Ons
Notion is free to use, but if you wish to upload files larger than 5 MB and collaborate with over 10 people, the Plus plan at $8 per month is available. Additionally, you can integrate Notion AI into any plan, making it a cost-effective solution compared to other tools.
P.S.: For inspiration, check out my portfolio. If you’re pressed for time, feel free to use mine as a template.
2. Contra
What is Contra?
Contra is a commission-free freelance marketplace aiming to revolutionize the way we work.
Creating Your Portfolio on Contra
If you're looking for beautifully designed portfolios, Contra is the answer. Here’s a glimpse of my portfolio on Contra:
Buse’s Portfolio
You can select from a range of stunning templates specifically tailored for impressive portfolios. With options to customize your bio, showcase your projects, and set your fees, Contra enables you to create a portfolio that reflects your personality:
Buse’s Portfolio
This platform is also a great resource for job opportunities. Unlike other sites, Contra offers commission-free projects.
Final Thoughts on Contra:
- A user-friendly and free portfolio platform
- One-click access to a wide array of templates
- Customizable templates for a unique portfolio experience
- Analytics to help optimize your business and track profile views
- A commission-free marketplace for freelance jobs
Add-Ons
Signing up for Contra is entirely free. You can build your portfolio, add your projects, services, and fees, and apply for commission-free jobs. If you wish to customize your portfolio design and use a custom domain, consider the Pro version for $12 per month.
Why a Portfolio is Essential
Whether you’re applying for a full-time position or a freelance role in creative industries, your portfolio serves as tangible evidence of your skills and value. You can write case studies to illustrate how you’ve navigated challenges and the successes your projects have achieved. A well-crafted portfolio can showcase your work samples and client testimonials, demonstrating to potential employers why you’re the ideal candidate.
Final Reflections:
- Allows you to articulate your bio and set yourself apart
- Acts as documentation of your professional journey
- Highlights your expertise and value
- Enables you to write case studies and performance reviews
- Polishes your resume, making you a standout applicant
Did you enjoy my insights? If you want to read more stories like this, consider signing up for Medium through my referral link. Treat me to a cup of coffee, as I have a deep appreciation for it!
Description: Discover how to create an impressive portfolio in just 15 minutes with free templates included.
Description: Learn how to build stunning developer portfolios quickly using this free tool!