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General Discussion

Robert Russell
Robert Russell
8,958 Points

what needs to be in my portfolio to get hired?

My goal is a job in web development. I like the idea of designing websites but want to focus more on code/development. I don't have a web design or visual communications degree, but I'm currently pursuing a BS in Computer Science. My question is, realistically, what kind of things and what level of work should I have in my portfolio before I start seeking work? This is about what I have so far: portfolio and a simple PHP app I wrote that I need to transfer to a different domain because it's a little offensive to show to potential employers: dafucksthemattawithyou.com. So if you work in the industry, and especially if you hire within the industry, guide me as to what employers look for in a personal site/portfolio and what I should be working on to better brand myself as a qualified candidate for employment.

1 Answer

Travis Flatt
Travis Flatt
20,149 Points

Adding a github repo could certainly help. When I'm approached by recruiters, it's usually through Linkedin or in reference to code on github. Having a handful of live projects helps, as well, which it looks like you already have. Of course, your local market may vary, but I never had problems getting interviews or employment with those things: Portfolio (You have one), Linkedin, Github.

Robert Russell
Robert Russell
8,958 Points

Thanks for the quick response! Github is one of those things I've been meaning to get a grasp on and start working with. I have a Linkedin but I suppose I should start being more proactive there too. I guess what I was really asking for is feedback on my portfolio itself, whether or not the projects I'm working on now are up to par with what employers are generally looking for. I appreciate your input and I'll definitely get working on a github repo and work on becoming more active on LinkedIn. It may be worth noting, though, that I haven't started searching for employment yet, as I haven't been sure whether the stuff I'm doing is quality enough to be paid for. Thanks again!