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This post has been updated in January 2023.
Software is a competitive field – you should take advantage of every opportunity to stand out from the competition. A simple, yet effective way is to create a portfolio.
Those who had a portfolio on their resume where I could learn more about them, their projects, and the code they've written were more likely to get a response from me when interviewing.
Here are some tips for creating a portfolio that stands out:
- Show code: Ideally links to GitHub repositories, including live demo URLs where I can see the things you've built. I'll go explore the codebase and see what tech choices you used. Bonus points if you wrote about why you picked that tech stack.
- Write stuff: An average engineer who can write well and explain concepts clearly is better than an excellent engineer who can't communicate with their coworkers. Show me you are a clear writer, which is especially important if the role is remote.
- Own your SEO: Google yourself and make sure you own the first page (not always easy, but worth influencing). Capture a domain name and build credibility. You might end up keeping that "digital home" throughout your career.
- Make it unique: Express yourself. Use a creative design. Spent the extra hour on the animation polish. Add something unique you haven't seen others do before.
- Show, don't tell: You said you have experience with React – show me.
Want to get started? Clone and deploy an example here, buy a domain, and you're online in less than five minutes.