How do you use email to showcase your portfolio or work samples to employers?

If you are applying for a job that requires creative or technical skills, you may need to send your portfolio or work samples to potential employers. However, how you present your work in an email can make a big difference in how you are perceived and evaluated. In this article, we will share some email etiquette tips on how to use email to showcase your portfolio or work samples to employers.

1 Choose the right format

Depending on the type and size of your work samples, you may have different options for how to share them in an email. For example, you could attach them as files, embed them as images, link to them on a website, or use a cloud service like Google Drive or Dropbox. However, you should consider the pros and cons of each format and how they affect the user experience of the recipient. For instance, attachments may be convenient but they could also be blocked by spam filters, take up space, or cause compatibility issues. Images may look nice but they could also distort the quality or resolution of your work. Links may be easy to access but they could also break or lead to irrelevant or outdated content. Cloud services may be secure but they could also require login or permission settings. Therefore, you should choose the format that best suits your work, the job requirements, and the expectations of the employer.

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Victoria Jones-DuBose

Founder and CEO, Published Author
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One of the things that I have found helpful when interviewing with a potential employer or a new client is to simply ask for clarity if you are unable to ascertain what it is they are looking for. I think it is much worse to walk away uninformed about what your client or potential employer's expectations are from you. Asking is not a sign of weakness, but rather shows the character trait of you wanting to be precise in what you are expected to achieve or present. Should your employer or future client ask something of you that you are unable to deliver, always have a good alternative that is appeasing to them. Presenting your best work is a plus for you and a plus for them. Add variety to your portfolio so that it doesn't appear boring.

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Samradni Dahiphale

Ladies Representative at ITERA | Personal Branding | Social Media Manager | Content Creator | Graphic Designer | 2x NPTEL Certified | Python Programmer | C Programmer | Java Learner | Tech Enthusiast |
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I'd recommend tailoring your approach based on your audience and the nature of your work samples. Consider using a combination of methods to ensure accessibility and professionalism. Attachments are reliable but be mindful of file size limitations and compatibility issues. Embedding images can enhance visual appeal but ensure they maintain quality. Links offer convenience but verify their relevance and stability. Ultimately, prioritize clarity and ease of access to showcase your expertise effectively.

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2 Write a clear and concise subject line

The subject line of your email is the first thing that the employer will see, so you should make it clear and concise. It should indicate the purpose of your email, the position you are applying for, and your name. For example, if you are applying for a graphic designer job, you could write something like "Graphic Designer Application - John Smith - Portfolio Attached". This way, you can catch the attention of the employer, show your professionalism, and avoid being mistaken for spam or junk mail.

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Crystal Tyler

Software Trainer | Microsoft Office Certified Trainer
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The addition of attention grabbers can help your emails gain attention. Adding intros like [Action Needed] or [Application Attached] can snag the attention of of the busiest hiring manager.

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Samradni Dahiphale

Ladies Representative at ITERA | Personal Branding | Social Media Manager | Content Creator | Graphic Designer | 2x NPTEL Certified | Python Programmer | C Programmer | Java Learner | Tech Enthusiast |
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Crafting a clear and concise subject line is crucial for grabbing the employer's attention and conveying professionalism. It sets the tone for your email and helps distinguish it from spam or irrelevant messages. Including key details like the position you're applying for and your name enhances clarity and makes it easier for the recipient to understand the purpose of your email at a glance. This can significantly increase the chances of your email being opened and considered seriously.

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Emmanuel Andambi Gwambo

Mr. Productivity Systems
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A clear and concise subject will work wonders on your open rates. Make sure you spend time to craft and read it through before you send the email. Especially for Cold Emails

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3 Introduce yourself and your work

The body of your email is where you introduce yourself and your work to the employer. You should start with a polite salutation that addresses the employer by name or title, such as "Dear Mr. Jones" or "Hello Hiring Manager". Then, you should briefly explain who you are, what position you are applying for, and why you are interested in the job. Next, you should highlight your relevant skills, qualifications, and achievements that match the job description. Finally, you should introduce your portfolio or work samples and explain how they demonstrate your abilities and fit the job requirements. You should also provide any additional information or instructions that the employer may need to access or view your work, such as passwords, formats, or software.

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Samradni Dahiphale

Ladies Representative at ITERA | Personal Branding | Social Media Manager | Content Creator | Graphic Designer | 2x NPTEL Certified | Python Programmer | C Programmer | Java Learner | Tech Enthusiast |
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I believe this approach offers a solid foundation for composing an effective email to an employer. Starting with a polite salutation personalized to the recipient sets a respectful tone. Providing a concise introduction about yourself and your interest in the position demonstrates professionalism and genuine interest. Highlighting relevant skills and achievements tailored to the job description helps to showcase your suitability for the role. Introducing your portfolio or work samples with clarity on how they align with the job requirements is essential for demonstrating your capabilities. Including any necessary instructions or additional information ensures a smooth process for the employer to access and evaluate your work.

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4 Use a professional and friendly tone

The tone of your email is important because it reflects your personality, attitude, and communication skills. You should use a professional and friendly tone that shows your enthusiasm, confidence, and respect for the employer. You should avoid using slang, jargon, abbreviations, or emojis that could be misunderstood or inappropriate. You should also avoid using too many exclamation points, all caps, or bold fonts that could seem too aggressive or desperate. You should use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation and proofread your email before sending it. You should also use a courteous and positive closing that expresses your gratitude and interest in the job, such as "Thank you for your consideration" or "I look forward to hearing from you".

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5 Follow up and follow through

After you send your email with your portfolio or work samples, you should not just sit back and wait for a response. You should follow up and follow through with the employer to show your initiative and professionalism. You should send a follow-up email within a week to confirm that the employer received your email and to restate your interest in the job. You should also be prepared to answer any questions or feedback that the employer may have about your work or to provide more samples if requested. You should also keep track of the status of your application and respond promptly to any invitations for interviews or tests.

Using email to showcase your portfolio or work samples to employers can be a powerful way to demonstrate your skills and stand out from the crowd. However, you need to follow some email etiquette tips to ensure that your email is clear, concise, professional, and friendly. By choosing the right format, writing a clear and concise subject line, introducing yourself and your work, using a professional and friendly tone, and following up and follow through, you can use email to impress employers and land your dream job.

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Emmanuel Andambi Gwambo

Mr. Productivity Systems
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Learning how to follow up and follow through will teach you how to handle different responses as well as the art of building a relationship with your potential client. Learn this tactic and practise it each day where possible.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Emmanuel Andambi Gwambo

Mr. Productivity Systems
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- Use the email layout to share snapshots of samples of the work in your portfolio. - Attach the full portfolio to the email. This will create curiosity in the reader's eyes and drive them to download and view your full portfolio.

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How do you use email to showcase your portfolio or work samples to employers?

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1 Choose the right format

2 Write a clear and concise subject line

3 Introduce yourself and your work

4 Use a professional and friendly tone

5 Follow up and follow through

6 Here’s what else to consider

Email Etiquette

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