4 Tips to Make Your Design Portfolio Shine (From Someone Who’s Seen Thousands)
Hey there, designers! Let’s talk about portfolios. As someone who’s screened countless design portfolios over the years, I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the “why did they think this was a good idea?” I know how nerve-wracking it can be to put your work out there, especially when you’re hoping to land your next big opportunity. So, I want to share a few tips that might help you stand out from the crowd — not just as a designer, but as a storyteller and problem-solver.
These aren’t just random thoughts; they’re things I’ve noticed while reviewing portfolios and deciding who moves forward in the hiring process. Let’s dive in!
1. Ditch the Templates — Be You
Okay, I get it. Templates are easy. They’re quick, they look decent, and they save you time. But here’s the thing: they also make you blend in. When I see a portfolio that’s clearly built from a template, it feels like you’re hiding behind someone else’s work. And if your actual projects don’t live up to the template’s polish, it can feel… well, a little disappointing.
Instead, try to create something that feels uniquely you. It doesn’t have to be flashy or over-the-top — just authentic. Show me your design sensibilities, your attention to detail, and your ability to create something from scratch. Trust me, it’s way more impressive than a cookie-cutter template.
2. Show Me the Goods — Right Away
Here’s a little secret: when I open a portfolio, I’m not looking for a fancy loading animation or a dramatic cover page. I just want to see your work. And I want to see it fast.
If your portfolio makes me click through three pages or wait for an animation to finish before I can see what you’ve done, I’m already losing interest. Most hiring managers or recruiters decide within seconds whether your portfolio is worth a deeper look. So, don’t bury your best work — put it front and center. Think of your portfolio like a trailer for a movie: give me the highlights upfront, and I’ll stick around for the full story.
3. Tell Me a Story, Not Just a Process
Look, I know the standard case study formula: problem, research, solution, outcome. It’s everywhere. And while it’s a solid framework, it doesn’t always make your work memorable. What does make it memorable? A great story.
Tell me about the time you had to pivot last-minute because the client changed their mind. Or how you solved a tricky usability issue by observing how real users interacted with your design. Share the “aha!” moments, the challenges, and the lessons you learned along the way. Stories like these make your work come alive and show me how you think as a designer.
4. Visual Design Isn’t Optional — It’s Essential
Here’s the truth: no matter what kind of designer you are — UX, interaction, motion, or something else — visual design matters. A lot. Typography, spacing, color, hierarchy… these are the building blocks of good design, and they’re non-negotiable.
Your portfolio is your chance to prove you’ve got these skills. If the layout is messy, the colors clash, or the typography is hard to read, it’s going to raise red flags. On the flip side, a clean, visually appealing portfolio shows me that you care about the details — and that you have the skills to back it up. But remember, don’t use a template.
Wrapping Up
Your portfolio is more than just a collection of projects — it’s a reflection of who you are as a designer. It’s your chance to show me not just what you’ve done, but how you think, how you solve problems, and how you communicate your ideas.
So, take a step back and look at your portfolio with fresh eyes. Does it feel authentic? Does it grab attention right away? Does it tell a story? And does it look good? If not, don’t stress — just start tweaking. You’ve got this.
And hey, if you’ve got any portfolio tips of your own, drop them in the comments! Let’s help each other out.
One more thing — follow bestfolios.com for great portfolio and resume inpsirations.
