Getting Started: The Essential Elements

1. Content Inventory

Before diving into building your portfolio, gather these key elements:

• 5-10 of your best UGC videos
• High-quality photos of yourself (personal branding shots)
• Client testimonials (if you have them)
• Your brand story
• A clear list of your services
• Equipment showcase (what you use to create content)

2. Develop Your Personal Brand

Stand out by defining:

• Your unique value proposition
• Your content style and aesthetic
• Your target niche (specific industries you want to work with)
• Brand colors and typography that reflect your personality
• Your brand voice and messaging

Creating Your Portfolio Website

Why I Always Recommend Showit

When I’m asked about which website hosting platform I choose, I always mention Showit, and here’s why:

• Completely customizable without coding
• Beautiful, drag-and-drop interface
• Mobile-responsive designs
• Perfect for showcasing video content
• Integration with blogging platforms
• SEO-friendly structure

Most important I believe with Showit you can reach a level of customization that truly takes your personal brand to the next level, differentiating it from a simple Canva Template. Creating a personal brand with your own domain, gives you the professional credibility that you are believing in your offers and shows commitment to future brands. When looking at the pricing, think that it’s a small fee to get in front of brand and being able to negotiate your rates better.

Essential Pages to Include to your site

1. Homepage
   • Captivating hero section
   • Clear value proposition
   • Featured work preview
   • Quick about section
   • Call-to-action buttons
     
     
2. About Page
   • Your story and journey
   • Professional photo
   • Your Processes
   • Brands you’ve worked with
   • Fun facts (make it personal!)
     
     
3. Portfolio Page
   • Categorized work samples
   • Results and metrics
   • Client success stories
     
     
4. Services Page
   • Detailed service packages
   • Pricing (optional)
   • Process overview
   • FAQs
     
     
5. Contact Page
   • Contact form
   • Social media links
   • Booking calendar
   • Response time expectation
     

Standing Out from the Crowd

1. Showcase Your Process

Showcasing your process to brands communicates that you know the flow of your craft and you can commit on delivering. When showcasing your process you can give extra context that can also help aid some questions your clients could have, like what’s your equipment and setup, how you edit materials and the steps you take to assure the quality of all your deliverables.

2. Highlight Results

When you highlight your results, you are communicating to brands you are worth the investment. This could also persuade them into getting in contact with you to get similar benefits for their brand. Here are some example of metrics you could include:

• Engagement rates
• Client success stories
• Before/after comparisons
• ROI examples

3. Personal Touch Elements

Personal touch elements could give your website a more personable and warm aspect so clients get to know you better. While it’s not mandatory to add to your portfolio, if you are feeling extra creative, you could include elements like where are you originally from, a get to know me better section, and your creative philosophy.

Alternative Platform Options

While Showit is my top recommendation, here are other platforms to consider:

• Squarespace (Great templates, less customizable)
• Wix (Good for beginners)
• WordPress (More technical, highly flexible)
• Canva (Perfect for starting out)

Ready to Take Your Portfolio to the Next Level?

While this guide gives you the foundation to create an amazing portfolio, I know how overwhelming it can feel to put all these pieces together. That’s where I come in! As a Website Designer, I can help you create a stunning, conversion-focused portfolio that truly represents your brand and attracts your dream clients.

Let’s Work Together!

I offer personalized portfolio creation services that include:

• Custom Showit website design
• Brand strategy development
• Content organization
• Launch support

🎨 Ready to create a portfolio that converts? Contact me!

Final Tips for Success

• Update your portfolio regularly
• Include only your best work
• Tell stories, don’t just show content
• Keep your contact information current
• Engage with your analytics
• Stay true to your authentic self

Remember, your portfolio is a living document that grows with you. Start with these fundamentals, and don’t be afraid to inject your personality and creativity into every aspect of your site.

Want to stay updated with more UGC tips and tricks? Follow me on Pinterest @ichigoods for daily inspiration and advice!