I’m a pretty big fan of the concept of Behance, which is a great way to showcase creative work in an online portfolio format. However, as much as I love the concept, I’m not a designer and the extent of my creative work is, well, words.
In the back of my mind, I’d been halfway on the hunt for something similar to collect my written work from the last decade without realizing it. Since 2002, I’ve had several dozen pieces published on websites, in print publications and just sort of all over the place. Pulling them together under one roof was proving nearly impossible – I tried to set up a page on my website to showcase each publication and its logo along with my contributions, but it wasn’t pretty.
Finally one day, I had the basic sense to give some thought to this frustration and dove into some searches for an online portfolio tool. My search yielded a great article from Mashable (a favorite resource), but in the end I realized the solution had been right under my nose.
After a couple of hours of collection and consolidation into Contently later, my online writing portfolio was complete.
I love that it is uber-simple: just add a link to each article (or upload a PDF for those early pieces that aren’t available through digital archive), tag the publication and approve or add an image. It’s attractive, simple and best of all: everything is hanging out in one spot accessible via my personalized link: bethany.contently.com.
After several recent discussions about opportunities to contribute to websites and publications, I’m delighted to have everything in one place. And now that my content is actually accessible, it will be interesting to keep up with some of the sharing and tracking features. I think this will be really handy for several clients who produce extensive articles as well. If you’re a writer or know a content crafter, be sure this is on their radar!
And yes, if we are being honest: I definitely got some nerdy pleasure out of Contently providing the added benefit of summarizing my total word count. It will appear vastly inferior to the reality my husband faces daily.
Graphic via the Hemingway Pfeiffer Museum & Educational Center blog
This is a perfect solution for you! Love it.
Thanks so much for sharing! I’m working on setting mine up now. Do we put a few of our favorite articles from our own websites on the portfolio? or just things we have written for other publications?
Hey Amanda! This question may have already been answered for you in our group, but I think Contently is great for either use. My preference was to highlight what I’ve written for publications and websites and to let my profile serve as the link to my own blog. I think most publishers are looking for a real track record, since anyone can have their own site. It really is a matter of personal preference though. I’m so glad you found it useful – look forward to seeing your portfolio!
Beth, I have over 60 print magazine articles out. Would I include them all? Also, what about foreign language appearances?