A career portfolio is one of the most effective methods for facilitating the career development and planning, career specialists have found.

Usually when we think of a portfolio, we think of its use mainly by persons who have completed pieces of work in the fine arts, such as painting. The career portfolio can, however, be as useful in the career development process of the individual as it is to the artist. It usually contains concise career information on who you are – your interests, skills and abilities, your career choice, academic and co-curricular performances, a career plan, and documents for the search. Let us examine its content and purpose.

1. Self-assessment results

Usually the first step in creating the portfolio is to get the client to do a self-assessment. This will help them discover their interests, skills, values and abilities and align these to career areas. This also aids in career decision making.

2. Career interest, searches and materials

These are usually done after self-assessment and are based on the results of the assessment. A portfolio should therefore contain information on the careers that are of interest to the client. Not only do they research aspects of the job, they also show possible career options, possible places for employment and outstanding persons in the field of interest.

Students/clients are also guided to make a list of needed skills and competencies for the career. Once this is done, they are encouraged to ensure that they get involved in programmes and activities which will help to hone skills and competencies.

The portfolio and the world of work

The portfolio must include a sample resume, cover letter, hints on how to organise the job search, a record of awards earned and standardised examination results. In addition, included are letters of recommendations, sample interview questions, reminders regarding interview techniques and questions typically asked at an interview. To have these included, the student/client would be coached on how to prepare the relevant documents.

Career portfolios also contain clear outlines of the individual’s career plan, namely what he/she intends to achieve over the short, medium and long term. The strategies by which these career goals will be achieved are also outlined.

The importance of the career portfolio in helping clients to build skills and competencies while meeting their career development needs cannot be over emphasised. It should be a must for use by students/clients and should be encouraged by development specialists. It is more than a ‘briefcase’ of important documents.

Merrit Henry is the career counsellor and students services manager at the placement and career services unit of the UWI, Mona. You may send comments to: merrit.henry@yahoo.com.