This Week's Breakaway + 10 Things to Create a Standout Portfolio

Hi Freedom Seekers!

Welcome to a brand new issue here at NotSo9tot5✌️This week, we’re diving into something every remote professional needs: a standout online portfolio. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refresh your current setup, this issue is packed with actionable tips to help you showcase your skills, attract clients, and land those gigs you’ve been dreaming of.

But before we start I want to thank each and everyone of our new subscribers, who filled out our survey. We plan to include a whole new section featuring top remote job opportunities each week. Filling out this small survey helps us choosing the right brands and remote job opportunities for you! It’s a win-win ;)

Now back to the exciting stuff, it’s all about crafting the best portfolio mankind has ever seen!

When you’re applying for remote jobs or freelance gigs, potential clients and employers often make snap decisions based on your portfolio. So we have to create outstanding portfolios to get noticed!

A non-ignorable portfolio doesn’t just display your work—it tells a story. It’s a curated collection that showcases not only your skills but also your problem-solving ability, creativity, and attention to detail.

But what does a great portfolio look like? Here’s a framework:

1. Highlight Your Best Work: Choose quality over quantity. Pick your most impressive and relevant projects, showcasing the skills you want to get hired for.

2. Tailor It to Your Target Audience: Think about your ideal clients. What problems do they have, and how have you solved them in your past work? Frame your portfolio as the solution to their needs.

3. Showcase Your Process: Don’t just show the final product—walk clients through your creative or working process. It helps potential clients see how you think, how you tackle challenges, and how you achieve results.

4. Make It Easy for Clients to Hire You: Include clear contact information and a call-to-action. Your portfolio should have obvious ways for potential clients to reach out, whether it’s through email, social media, or a contact form.

This Week’s Breakaway: Your portfolio isn’t just a collection; it’s a conversation. Make it so compelling they can’t ignore you.

10 Things to Create A Standout Portfolio 👇

This section provides further curated resources to craft your perfect portfolio

1. Check out this article

2. Here’s an extremely insightful reddit thread on creating outstanding portfolios

3.  Example: 5 inspiring portfolio designs

4. Canva is the go-to tool for creating visuals

5. Pro Tip: Add testimonials! Even one happy client or a colleague’s recommendation can build instant credibility

6. Check out this YouTube tutorial

7. Next-Level Idea: Create a mini case study for each project—outline the problem, your solution, and the results

8. You like podcasts? Here’s a good one!

9. Reminder: “Your portfolio is the silent ambassador of your brand.”

10. After having created your portfolio, it’s time for fun! Here are 50 enjoyable things to do after work

Can’t wait to see you in the next one!