Providing high quality samples of your work is a crucial element in gaining new business. While having a single portfolio can be extremely beneficial, having more than one portfolio can be a good idea, too.
Writers who take on a variety of writing projects can benefit from having separate portfolios. As a versatile writer myself, I have a diverse portfolio with individual samples that represent the range of styles I can provide. I plan to expand it, and separate academic writing form copywriting and sales, as well as apart from web article writing and newsletters.
I have found that not having a collection of samples from particular niches that I am quite capable of doing has hindered my ability to attract certain clients. I do have a range of samples, however, if a majority of my samples are different from the style that a client is looking for, they tend to move on to the next writer. I may very well have a single sample that is close to what they might be looking for, but two or three samples is always more reassuring to a buyer.
It makes sense to have groups of samples that reflect each type of writing separately. Buyers who are looking for a professional tone are not interested in seeing conversational style article on dating. A potential client looking for friendly and engaging blog posts don’t want to see technical reports. I think having mini portfolios that appeal specifically to certain buyers is a smart move, and I plan to take it. (I’m always looking for ways to improve.)
What is your portfolio like? Do you have a range of individual samples for different kinds of writing, or do you have sections with multiple samples for each type of writing? Do you have multiple portfolios?
