Quick note from me

This week I’ve been building systems, collaborating with freelancers, and reflecting on my career vision. If you’d like me to share more, let me know.

But today: portfolios. One tip to help you stop obsessing and get yours done, plus an example that nails storytelling.

Story outline

• Level 01: Own your work

• Level 02: Don’t start with case studies

• Level 03: Don’t obsess over designing your portfolio

• Student spotlight

Level 01

Own your work

Give yourself permission to make mistakes. Show unfinished work. Apply even if you don’t feel ready. Believe me, even the best portfolios (and designers from top companies) don’t have it all figured out. Don’t wait for outside validation. First, you need to feel confident enough with your portfolio to share it.

Level 02

Don’t start with case studies

I repeat this all the time because writing case studies first will overwhelm you and get you stuck. Start with a portfolio MVP: a simple landing page, one story, something to get the ball rolling. That’s how you stay motivated. I teach this as the “Portfolio Snapshot” format in my course.

Level 03

Don’t obsess over designing your portfolio

Focus on showing your work. Your work is the main actor. If it feels weak, maybe because you’re missing skills or worked on outdated products, then put your energy into improving your work first. Because in the end, it’s your work that sells.

⭐️ Student spotlight

Storytelling done right

Sarah is a B2B and social impact designer who keeps refining her portfolio through my course. A great reminder that storytelling is a skill you can learn.

What works here?

• A clear one-liner that nails her positioning. No fluff or generic statements.

• Storytelling built for scannability, with actionable titles and insightful headings.

• Project stories that focus on what matters: the biz and user problem, before/after, rationale, and results.

Sarah’s portfolio proves you don’t need to include everything to make it stand out. The takeaway? Prioritise your career stories and write with clarity. That’s the simplest way to nail storytelling.

→ Check Sarah’s portfolio

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Want help with your UX portfolio? 🎁

1. Build your UX Portfolio with my course

2. Sign up for a call with me to discuss your portfolio

3. Get an async portfolio review (no call)