I've been learning to code and working on various projects, but I'm unsure how to effectively present these to potential employers during my job search. What are the best ways to showcase what I've built? Should I host all my projects live somewhere, just provide a link to my GitHub, or should I create a portfolio website? I'm curious about which methods have worked best for others when applying for jobs. Also, is it as tedious to keep everything updated as it seems, or are there easier workflows for that?
3 Answers
I prefer using a portfolio website to display my work visually—screenshots, videos, you name it. I always include a link to the GitHub repo on that page as well. This way, employers can see both the project and the code if they're interested.
A solid option is to use GitHub to display your projects, since it allows you to share your source code easily. Platforms like Vercel can even sync your live deployments with your GitHub commits. Building a portfolio website can enhance your appeal by showing off your design skills. Start with GitHub for your code, and when your portfolio expands, link to that as well. Keeping everything up-to-date isn’t too hard; for resumes, you can even create an app to simplify updates!
Are your projects in use by others? If they are, you can list them on your resume similarly to how you would a business venture, even if they aren't generating revenue. However, if they're just personal projects or tutorials, employers might not dive into them during the resume screening. It’s a good idea to have links ready for interviews. Showcasing projects you've built from the ground up can lead to deeper discussions; just be prepared to explain your thought process and decisions. Avoid sharing anything you didn't personally create, as interviewers often want to gauge your understanding.
True—if people are using your projects, that's a great validation. But remember, if your project is too basic or not widely adopted, it might not impress on a screening. It's all about showcasing your problem-solving skills too.