Building a Career Portfolio in the Gig Economy
In an era marked by economic uncertainty and an increasing number of layoffs, people are really starting to reevaluate their career choices. Instead of continuing to put in their dues as they climb the corporate ladder, they’re testing the waters in the gig economy. They want options that provide more flexibility and security and many of them are finding that they enjoy having that extra measure of control over their earnings and time.
If this is something you’ve been considering, you might be wondering how you can make sure that you’re still advancing your career like you would expect to do in a traditional role. The answer is a career portfolio! I love the way April Rinne describes the concept of a career portfolio in her 2021 Harvard Business Review article:
“Whereas a career path tends to be a singular pursuit (climb the ladder in one direction and focus on what is straight ahead), a career portfolio is a never-ending source of discovery and fulfillment. It represents your vast and diverse professional journey, including the various twists and turns, whether made by choice or by circumstance.”
In my 1:1 coaching program, I help my clients create a strong professional brand, which is really just another way of thinking about this. Whether you work in a more traditional employment structure or you participate in the gig economy, you want to make sure all of the achievements, skills, and expertise you’ve gained showcase your continual growth.
So, let’s talk about some of the ways you can create a powerful career portfolio if you choose to work (or supplement your work) in the gig economy!
5 Tips for Building Your Career Portfolio in the Gig Economy
Tip 1 - Identify Your Core Skills and Expertise
Begin by taking stock of your skills, experiences, and areas of expertise. Think about the services you offer (or want to offer) as a gig worker and the value you bring to your clients. Reflect on the projects you've completed and the feedback you've received. This self-reflection will help you identify your core strengths and the unique contributions you can make.
2 - Showcase Your Work
One of the key aspects of a career portfolio is presenting tangible evidence of your capabilities. Gather samples of your best work that demonstrate the range and quality of your services. Make sure to highlight the outcomes and results you were able to achieve for your clients. This is a great way to emphasize your value and measure your growth over time!
3 - Collect Testimonials and Recommendations
As a gig worker, building credibility and trust is super important. Make sure you request testimonials and recommendations from satisfied clients or colleagues who can vouch for your skills and professionalism. These endorsements add an extra layer of validation to your portfolio and can greatly enhance your reputation in the gig economy.
4 - Continuously Update and Improve
A career portfolio is not static; it should evolve as you grow and gain new experiences. Regularly update your portfolio with recent projects, achievements, and new skills you acquire. Consider learning opportunities, such as online courses or certifications, to further enhance your expertise and add even more credibility to your career journey.
5 - Leverage Online Platforms
Online platforms are powerful tools you can use to showcase your career portfolio. Utilize professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to create a comprehensive profile that highlights your skills, achievements, and samples of your work. Consider creating a personal website or online portfolio to provide potential clients with a centralized location to explore your offerings.
Remember: a career portfolio is not just a means of showcasing your past work. It’s a powerful tool for shaping your future, too. By investing time and effort into developing a career portfolio, you will position yourself as a competent and credible gig worker, capable of delivering exceptional results. It will help you stand out from the crowd, allowing you to continually grow and expand your opportunities and earning potential.
Do you have questions for me about the gig economy or the future of your career? 1:1 coaching is a great way to get personalized help with your career goals. You can schedule a 30-minute consultation call with me here to discover whether 1:1 coaching is the right option for you!