Here’s a scenario:
An employer has posted a job opening on a well-known website and gets bombarded with applications.
The employer needs to weed out the crack pots from the legit people with the credentials.
There are lots or reasons that a company may not hire you, don’t let a lack of a professional look be one of them.
Looks are everything
Make sure your website reflects the kind or designer you are. I’m a full believer that your website should have some personality.
Don’t be something your not
If your a solo practicing freelancer DO NOT pretend that your a huge company. Believe it or not some clients want a small time freelancer so that they get individual attention.
Tips on what to include in your online portfolio
1. Include only your best work
This seams like an obvious one but I’ve seen many a portfolio where the designer had included every last piece ever done. Don’t include High School work unless your in High school. Edit liberally.
2. Write about your work
It’s always helpful to include details on the project you worked on, like date completed, client name, programs used, your role in the design, any other information that a future employer might find interesting.
3. Show you are versatile.
If your style ranges from conservative to funky, show it.
4. Show off your skills
If your also a web designer try to include some of your coding skills. If CSS is your strength play it up. Maybe jQuery or PHP is more your style? Make sure to show it off.