Your Portfolio Checklist

As you get ready to interview for your next job, don't forget to put together a portfolio to bring with you. A portfolio contains all the things that are on your résumé and samples of your accomplishments. Interviewers are impressed when you walk in the door with supporting documents. After all, you're showing them that you respect their time, you're well prepared, you're truthful, and you do more than you are asked.

Here's what to include in your portfolio.

1. A 1" three-ring binder or similar type folder
2. Clear plastic page protectors
3. 4 copies of your résumé on high quality paper
4. Your cover letter
5. 4 copies of your references page
6. Copies of letters of recommendations
7. Copies of education certificates, certifications, licenses, and degrees. Photojournalists may want to include a copy of their DMV record.
8. Copies of college transcripts
9. Copies of awards, honors, or other recognition
10. Writing samples, scripts, and/or rundowns of award winning shows if you're a producer.
11. Overnight ratings from some of your best shows if you're a producer.
12. Positive employee evaluations.
13. Positive emails or letters from viewers.
14. INS supporting information (photocopy of your driver's license, social security card, or passport)
Here's why you want to bring four copies of your résumé. There's the possibility that the original résumé you mailed was misplaced, photocopied, stained, etc. There's also the possibility that the News Director will include the Managing Editor, Chief Photographer, or another decision maker in the interview. Rather than have them look at a photocopy of your résumé, hand them an original on high quality paper. You also want to have a copy in front of you while their asking questions from it. This again shows you are prepared, and care about making a great impression. As for the INS information, you will need to provide that once you've accepted the job, however, most candidates forget, and have to bring it in at a later date. Since this folder
contains a lot of confidential information, be careful that you don't accidentally lose it for an identity thief to find.

Your portfolio is another way to make a great impression in your job search. Make it work for you to put your best foot forward.

Next week: Typical Interview questions