Why a Project Portfolio Matters

In the current skills-based economy, organizations want more than job descriptions – they want demonstrated expertise. A project-based portfolio offers concrete proof of your abilities, increasing your credibility as a candidate and consultant. 
 

Imagine two consultants for a marketing project: 

• Consultant A lists "managed social media campaigns" on their resume. 
• Consultant B showcases two projects: one where they increased website traffic by 20% through strategic social media campaigns, and another where they improved early-stage engagement by 35% by leveraging internal lead data. 

Who's more likely to impress the hiring manager? 

Beyond building credibility, a project portfolio sets you apart from the competition. It allows you to demonstrate specific skills and showcase tangible results. Quantifying your accomplishments with metrics in your portfolio presents your capabilities in a way that standard job responsibilities typically won’t. 

Key Elements of a Strong Project Portfolio

Your portfolio should be a compelling narrative that tells the story of your professional journey. Here's what to include: 

• Summary/Profile: Briefly introduce yourself and highlight your areas of expertise. 
• Project Case Studies: Showcase 3-5 projects that demonstrate your skills and quantify your impact. For each project, include: 
• Challenge: What was the problem? 
• Your Role: What were your responsibilities? 
• Results: Quantify your achievements with metrics and data whenever possible (e.g., increased sales by 25%). 
• Change: Describe the immediate or long-term impact of your work. 
• Skills & Certifications: Include your key skills and any relevant certifications. 
• Client Testimonials: Include quotes from satisfied clients validating your work (optional but highly impactful). 
  

Tailoring Your Portfolio

Don't think of your portfolio as a one-size-fits-all document. Tailor it to the specific project or role you're targeting. In this format, you can more readily reorganize accomplishments for a specific opportunity without having to rewrite a bespoke resume. You will also find it easier to highlight relevant projects and expertise that demonstrate the skills and experience the employer or client seeks. 

While a physical portfolio can be beneficial, consider creating a digital version as well. Use platforms like LinkedIn or a dedicated portfolio website to showcase your work online.  This will make your portfolio easily accessible, shareable, and mobile-friendly. This living format will make it easier to add new projects and adapt your content to reflect market trends and your evolving skillset, unlike a resume which might require a complete rewrite. 

Made-Saved-Achieved Framework

At AccruePartners, we encourage consultants to adopt the Made-Saved-Achieved framework, which allows you to quantify your impact:  

• Made: This refers to the tasks, initiatives, or solutions you created or implemented. 
• Saved: This can include cost savings, time efficiencies, or risk mitigation. 
• Achieved: This highlights the measurable outcomes or results of your work. 

Example 1:  

Before: Managed social media campaigns. 

After: Crafted and led a social media strategy that increased website traffic by 20% and generated $50,000 in new sales. Saved the company time and resources by automating social media scheduling and reporting. 

Example 2:  

Before: Led a team of analysts. 

After: Established a data-driven analytics model that improved decision-making accuracy by 30%. Saved the company $100,000 in lost revenue due to incorrect forecasting. Achieved a 25% increase in customer satisfaction through targeted data-driven campaigns. 

By following this framework, you can create a more compelling project portfolio that showcases the real value you bring to potential employers or clients. 

Build Your Project Portfolio with AccruePartners

Investing in your project portfolio today opens the door to future career success. Partner with AccruePartners to build your portfolio and connect with exciting project opportunities for leading organizations across the Carolinas. 

• Consultants: Let us guide you in crafting a compelling project portfolio that highlights your unique skills and achievements. We’ll connect you with exciting project opportunities that are aligned with your talents. Ready to take the next step? Let's talk! 
  
  
• Client Leaders: Whether you’re deciding between direct hires or contingent labor, we can help you navigate your workforce needs and find the right talent for your specific project requirements. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your goals. 

Written in collaboration with: Tim Aldrich and Kayla Kiser