- Decade-long experience in crafting responsive designs;
- Adobe certification to my name;
- Fluency in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
These points don’t pack a punch for clients unless they’re in the design or development industry. What clients seek is understanding of the benefits you provide, not the jargon of the process. Below, discover five indicators that suggest it might be time for a refresh of your online portfolio:
Indicator #1: A Downturn in Client Engagements
There can be various causes for a slower business pace. It helps to inspect your Google Analytics to uncover the underlying reasons.
Is Traffic Consistent?
If the response is negative, search visibility could be the culprit. Address indexing or SEO deficiencies to remedy the situation.
Are High Bounce Rates (>90%) & Low Time on Page (< 10 seconds) an Issue?
Slow website performance might be at fault here. Use PageSpeed Insights for insight and corrections.
Getting Traffic but No Leads?
Then, perhaps it’s your portfolio that’s not hitting the mark. It could be the showcased work, the clarity of the copy, or even technical glitches like a nonfunctional contact form. Utilize Google Analytics’ Users Flow (find it under Audience > Users Flow) to trace where visitors lose interest. This analysis can pinpoint the need for a portfolio overhaul.
Indicator #2: A Surge in Business
At the onset, you likely picked stellar projects to display on your portfolio. However, as business flourishes, it’s crucial not to neglect the portfolio. Regular updates ensure it mirrors the excellence of your most recent work. An example is the evolution of the “Work” page for 10up from 2019 to 2020. It’s evident 10up revises its portfolio periodically with new projects to stay current.
Indicator #3: Acquisition of New Skills
A portfolio is a testament to your skill set. It should resonate with contemporary web design principles and showcase projects that reflect this. If web design trends are shifting rapidly, you might need to refresh your portfolio annually. It’s not about packing in every new feature; it’s about presenting a site fused with today’s top design elements. For instance, if you’ve mastered chatbot integration, feature it on your own site to demonstrate your prowess to potential clients. A prime example is the aesthetic update of Kati Forner Design‘s portfolio reflecting modern design practices.
Indicator #4: Shifting to a Different Niche
For individual web designers, specifying in a unique niche can simplify client acquisition. If you choose to pivot or expand your niche selection, this shift must be clear in your portfolio. Take Gravitate Design as a case study: the evolution of their niche focus from 2016 to 2020 demonstrates the importance of keeping the portfolio aligned with current offerings and specialties.
When Unsure, Revamp Your Portfolio
It’s challenging to carve out time for updates to your business’s presentation, yet the necessity of a cutting-edge portfolio is undeniable. It’s akin to a web designer’s resume, vital for marketing and lead generation. Regular checks and updates, even just a few hours annually, can ensure your portfolio remains relevant and effective.
