Blog article
December 25, 2024

Online portfolio websites vs. traditional resumes: which works better?

In today’s digital-first world, the way you present your skills and achievements can make or break your career prospects. While traditional resumes have been the standard for decades, online portfolio websites are becoming increasingly popular. But which one works better? In this article, we'll compare the strengths and weaknesses of both, helping you decide what’s best for your career.

The case for online portfolio websites

Advantages

  1. Visual appeal: An online portfolio lets you showcase your work through images, videos, and interactive elements.
  2. Accessibility: Employers can view your portfolio anytime, anywhere with just a link.
  3. Personal branding: A well-designed portfolio reflects your personality and style.
  4. Versatility: Whether you’re a designer, developer, or writer, an online portfolio can accommodate all types of work.

Disadvantages

  1. Time investment: Building and maintaining a portfolio takes effort.
  2. Technical skills: Some platforms require basic knowledge of web development or design.
  3. Internet dependence: No internet means no access.

The case for traditional resumes

Advantages

  1. Quick and concise: Resumes provide a snapshot of your experience and skills.
  2. Universal format: They are widely accepted and easy to share.
  3. Efficient for applications: Many job portals and recruiters require resumes.

Disadvantages

  1. Limited creativity: Resumes are often restricted to text and simple formatting.
  2. Lack of depth: They don’t allow you to showcase projects or case studies.
  3. Hard to stand out: In a stack of applications, a resume can easily get overlooked.

When to use each

  • Traditional resume: Best for quick job applications, especially when required by employers.
  • Online portfolio website: Ideal for creative roles or when you want to stand out in competitive industries.

Conclusion

Both traditional resumes and online portfolio websites have their place in a professional toolkit. For maximum impact, use them together. A resume can serve as an introduction, while your portfolio website provides detailed insights into your work. By leveraging both, you’ll cover all your bases and increase your chances of landing your dream job.