Re: Writing samples: what to look for

[John Posada <posada -at- FAXSAV -dot- COM>]

This response caught my attention because I DO have a portfolio...It IS a "big black [leather] book with writing samples arranged in a pretty package." The leather binder alone cost me about 80 bucks...heavy thick leather with a good zipper.

It also has a number of other sections, each with custom tabs, including formatted list of references, resume, letters of commendation, letters of references, awards, and emails containing strong compliments.  I then have three sample sections: hardcopy output, electronic output (such as web pages), and presentation output (PowerPoint/speaker's notes-type stuff).  The sample section comprises about 50% of the total volume, and the sample section has maybe 60 pages of material.

My reasoning is this.

First, having an extensive sales background (maybe 15-18 years), I know that you cannot have a "steak without its sizzle".  By packaging the material, it gives the impression that it is "major stuff" and very important to me (so it should be important to you)..as opposed to "grabbed" and "thrown" (sorry, but that is the mindset I specifically want to avoid...if you grab and throw your stuff, how do I know you won't to the same with MY stuff?).  In addition, by it not being loose, it eliminates the awkward situation when the client asks (or doesn't ask) if they can keep some or all of the samples. I NEVER LEAVE SAMPLES.

Second, Let's face it...If I want to see 150 page book, I'll contact Amazon.  You cannot walk an interviewer through a document that big and give it justice, so why bring it.  However, depending on publication, I may take 10-15 pages out of it and add it to my portfolio...TOC, Index, Introductory section, and some pages throughout with strong visual impact or especially complex wording/layout/ material that you want to point out.

I will then PRESENT my portfolio during the meeting...however, not until I've said everything I want to say that doesn't depend on the portfolio.  As soon as you place something in their hands, they've stopped hearing you (sales 101 and don't think that your primary reason for being there isn't to sell a product and the product is you...your portfolio is your brochure).

I have my portfolio right next to me on my desk.  You know from experience that sometimes, you will look at something you've produced and think to yourself "Hot-damn...I'm good!!"  This is the first hint that it is a candidate for the portfolio. The other hint is when someone comes back to you and compliments you on a particular piece of work. It may also replace something comparable that isn't as strong. You may have to sanitize it, but it will eliminate the situation in the future where you are trying to assemble samples and going crazy because you just cannot remember which job had that really great sample of "something-or-another".

Think of each job as preparing you for the next one.

Anyway...that's my 2 cents


Mary Durlak wrote:

>        If you're coming in, *ask* what I'm interested in. I expect to see
>a portfolio, and would hope to see an in-depth copy of something relative
>to the work at hand. Also, a copy you can leave with me that I don't have
>to return--even if it's not the whole document--is much appreciated.
>        Word of caution: some TWs find any non-TW samples a major
>turn-off. Try to know your audience!!
>        Mary
>
This is fascinating, especially since I've NEVER put together a true
portfolio--meaning a big black book with writing samples artfully arranged
in a pretty package. I've usually grabbed 3-5 pieces that relate to the
work being discussed and thrown them in a file folder. During the interview
I talk the person through each piece--who the audience was, whether I
worked alone or on a team, etc.

How many of you TWs who interview really expect a portfolio? Why? If I've
written a 150-page how-to booklet, how do I fit that into a portfolio? Can
the strength of the writing overcome the lack of proper presentation?

John Posada, Technical Writer (and proud of the title)
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