Adding Work in Progress Projects to Your Portfolio for Job Interviews: Best Practices

When preparing to present your portfolio during a job interview, you often wonder whether to include work in progress projects. This decision can significantly impact the perception your interviewer has of your skills, experience, and dedication. Here are some best practices and advice to help you decide when and how to incorporate these projects into your portfolio.

When Should You Include Work in Progress Projects?

Work in progress projects can be valuable additions to your portfolio, especially if they are relevant to the job you are interviewing for. If you have dedicated time and effort to these projects, present them to highlight your ongoing commitment and progress. Here are a few scenarios where including work in progress projects can be beneficial:

Relevant Skills and Technology: If the project showcases specific skills or technology that are crucial for the role you are applying for, include it. This can demonstrate that you are a quick learner and capable of adapting to new tools and techniques. Problem-Solving Abilities: Work in progress projects often involve overcoming challenges. Mentioning how you have approached and are continuing to address these issues can show your problem-solving skills. Collaboration and Teamwork: If the project involves collaboration with others, include it to demonstrate your ability to work in a team environment.

However, if the project is not closely related to the job or has been abandoned without significant progress, it might be best to exclude it to avoid diluting the impact of your relevant projects.

How to Present Work in Progress Projects in Your Portfolio

When presenting work in progress projects, it is crucial to emphasize the progress you have made and the continued commitment to the project. Here are some tips on how to effectively showcase these projects:

Highlight Specific Steps: Explain the specific steps you have taken so far and the results or impact these steps have had. For example, if you are working on a software development project, highlight the features you have implemented or the improvements you have introduced. Discuss Challenges and Solutions: Be transparent about the challenges you have faced and how you have addressed them. This can demonstrate your resilience and problem-solving abilities. Set Clear Goals: Outline the next steps you plan to take and the goals you aim to achieve. This can provide a positive sense of momentum to the project.

Remember, the focus should be on the project's relevance to the job and the value it adds to your application. Structure your portfolio in a way that showcases your most relevant and impactful projects first, followed by the work in progress projects.

Conclusion: Balancing Work in Progress and Completed Projects

Deciding whether to include work in progress projects in your portfolio for a job interview requires careful consideration. By selecting projects that align with the job requirements and effectively presenting your progress, you can enhance your application and stand out to potential employers. Remember, your commitment and ongoing effort can be just as valuable as completed projects, as long as they are relevant and well-explained.