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Portfolio strategizing

You got ONE minute to tell your story, what will it say?

You might have an amazing portfolio, but today, it's not just about your work or how skilled you are with tools like KeyShot—it's about FIT. Are you the right person for the role? Do you possess the critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and personality that align with the company’s values? The companies that matter hire to invest in talent and keep it long-term.

I help young professionals elevate their portfolios using a proven formula that focuses on:

  • Compelling Storytelling

  • A Well-Rounded Profile

  • A Strong, Impactful Layout

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Tired of applying and not hearing back?

Your portfolio might be holding you back from making the impact you deserve. Let’s craft a solid portfolio strategy that showcases your unique skills, experience, and personality to the right audience—helping you stand out and land the roles you’re aiming for.

Outline

Inspiration & Benchmarking

We start by exploring a curated selection of successful portfolios from designers who have landed roles at top companies. This session helps you:

  • Understand what makes these portfolios effective.

  • Identify industry trends, best practices, and innovative ideas.

  • Gain clarity on how to present your work to align with what companies are looking for.

​Outcome: A clear understanding of the elements that make a portfolio stand out and actionable insights to apply to your own.

2. Discovery & Alignment

Next, we take a deep dive into:

  • Your long-term goals and dream roles.

  • Your current portfolio’s strengths and weaknesses.

  • The specific needs and preferences of the companies or consultancies you’re targeting.

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Outcome: A tailored roadmap that bridges where you are to where you want to be.

3. Refining Your Narrative

Your portfolio isn’t just a collection of projects; it’s your story.

  • Define a compelling narrative that highlights your value as a designer.

  • Showcase critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and design impact.

  • Curate and sequence projects for maximum engagement.​

Outcome: A portfolio that communicates not just your work but who you are and why you’re the right fit.

​4. Personalized Feedback & Iteration

Through one-on-one sessions, we’ll review and refine:

  • Project case studies and storytelling.

  • Visual presentation and layout.

  • Mock applications tailored to your target roles.

Outcome: A portfolio that’s been rigorously tested and fine-tuned for maximum effectiveness.

The Strategy Behind Success

Throughout my professional journey, I’ve worn many hats: I’ve been the one applying for jobs, and I’ve also been the one conducting interviews. One undeniable common factor in successful portfolios is a strategic approach. Early in my career, I had the opportunity to work with esteemed consultancies such as Smart Design, Curve ID, Pensa, Pollen Design, Force Majeure, and many others. I’ll share with you the strategies and insights that helped me thrive in these roles.

For the past 13 years, I’ve also been an educator, deeply immersed in understanding how design work is created and how to translate it into elements that resonate in the professional world. With one foot firmly in academia and the other in industry, I’m uniquely positioned to guide you in taking the next step toward success.

TESTIMONIALS

Alvaro’s guidance reaches beyond your typical feedback session. It’s a highly strategized pathway that leverages your strengths and capabilities to build a portfolio tailored to your professional goals. As a seasoned entrepreneur, educator, and designer, he boils your portfolio down to the essentials, providing clear, concise, actionable steps for targeted improvement. As a fresh graduate, he’s helped push my work outside that educational bubble and into the professional realm. I strongly believe designers of any experience can find value and insight in his portfolio reviews.

Abel Tan, Industrial Designer

Abel Tan
Make the most of your session

Over the years, I’ve crafted a series of articles aimed at guiding young professionals on their journey through design. I encourage you to explore these articles, apply their insights, and come to the session with the best version of your work. Remember, there’s always room for growth and refinement!

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GET20% off

When you refer a friend to a Portfolio Strategizing Session, simply have them enter your name and email at checkout. I’ll then email you a discount code or reimburse you for a session you’ve already booked.

*Please note, only one discount can be applied per session.

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