Steal the Spotlight: Build a Writing Portfolio That Gets You Hired

If you’ve ever applied for a writing gig and scrambled to find links or throw together samples last-minute, you’re not alone.

Many writers, even experienced ones delay building a proper writing portfolio. But having a strong, well-organized portfolio isn’t optional anymore. Whether you’re applying for full-time content writer roles or pitching for freelance writing work, your portfolio is what gets you noticed.

This article will walk you through exactly what a writing portfolio is, how to build one, and what it should look like, even if you’re starting from zero.

What Is a Writing Portfolio?

A writing portfolio is a curated collection of your best written work. It helps potential clients or employers see the kind of content you can produce.

This isn’t about throwing every piece you’ve ever written into a Google Doc. Your portfolio should highlight the type of writing you want to get hired for and it should be easy to browse.

Whether you’re a freelance writer, content creator, or creative writer, your portfolio acts as proof of your skills. It gives people confidence in hiring you.

What Does a Writing Portfolio Look Like?

There’s no single correct format. Some writers use:

• A personal website
• A Notion or Google Docs folder
• A profile on platforms like Contently or Journo Portfolio
• A portfolio PDF (less common, but still used)

Choose a format based on your current stage, but make sure it’s easy to access and cleanly presented.

What Should a Writing Portfolio Look Like?

If you’re wondering what should go in your writing portfolio, here’s what matters most:

• Your best 4–8 writing samples (not everything you’ve ever written)
• Variety: Show different types of content if possible (blog posts, product descriptions, case studies, etc.)
• Clear labels: Add a short intro or title to each piece explaining what it is
• Live links: Whenever possible, link to published work
• Optional bio: A short paragraph at the top about your writing niche or experience

Tip: Don’t include rough drafts, unpublished blog posts, or academic essays unless that’s the kind of writing you’re being hired for.

How to Create a Writing Portfolio with No Experience

If you have no published work yet, that’s okay. Here’s how to get started.

1. Create Practice Samples

Pick 2–3 types of content you’d like to be hired for (like blog posts or landing pages). Then write samples that reflect those formats.

These don’t need to be published. Treat them like portfolio content, polish them fully, format them cleanly, and include them in your portfolio as if they were paid work.

2. Publish on Your Own

You can:

• Start a free blog using WordPress or Medium
• Publish samples on LinkedIn
• Create a Notion page or Google Doc with viewing access

3. Write for Nonprofits or Friends

Offering a free or discounted article to a small business or nonprofit can give you a live link and real-world experience.

Pull-out tip: Some clients prefer seeing samples written on your own, because it shows initiative and skill even without client direction.

Where to Host Your Online Writing Portfolio

You don’t need a designer or custom website to showcase your work.

Here are platforms writers actually use:

1. The Content Writing Craft

Easy listing submission to add your work projects and experience
Directory | The Content Writing Craft

2. Clippings.me

Easy to use, especially if you’re transitioning into writing from another field.
https://www.clippings.me

3. Contena Portfolio

More structured, focused on professional-looking freelance writer portfolios.
https://www.contena.co

4. WordPress or Squarespace Site

Good if you want more control or already have a personal site.

5. Notion or Google Drive

Perfect if you’re just getting started or want a lightweight option.

6. Contently

Used by established writers. Offers visibility but harder to get started with.
https://www.contently.com

How to Choose What to Include in Your Portfolio

Your portfolio should align with the type of work you want to do.

Let’s say you’re aiming for:

• Creative writing portfolio examples: Include short stories, character-driven blog posts, or essays.
• Freelance content writing jobs: Include SEO blog posts, how-to articles, or branded content.
• Content writing portfolio: Include published website copy, product pages, and service descriptions.

Don’t mix wildly different types of writing unless the job calls for it. A content writer portfolio and a creative writing portfolio often need their own space.

What Makes a Strong Writing Portfolio

Here’s what separates a strong writer portfolio from a generic one:

• Clarity: No clutter. Make it easy to skim.
• Relevance: Only show work you’d like to get hired to do.
• Formatting: Don’t make people open a dozen Google Docs with weird formatting.
• Context: Add a one-sentence description for each sample (e.g. “SEO blog post for a fitness brand”).
• Consistency: Match tone, layout, and links across your samples.

What a Great Writing Portfolio Looks Like

Want to see what others are doing? These writer portfolio websites are good starting points:

• Elna Cain – Freelance Writer Portfolio
  Simple and focused on blog writing and B2B content.
• Sophie Lizard – Be a Freelance Blogger
  Uses her blog itself as a sample base.
• Journo Portfolio Examples
  Curated list of portfolio content from writers using the platform.

Did you know?
Having a professional-looking portfolio site can increase your perceived value as a freelance writer by as much as 40% (Source: ClearVoice Freelancer Survey).

How Often to Update Your Writing Portfolio

Your writing portfolio isn’t something you create once and forget. Make it a habit to update it:

• Every 3–6 months
• Whenever you finish a new strong piece
• When you change niches or target clients

Outdated samples, broken links, or irrelevant formats can hurt your chances, especially if you’re applying for remote content writing jobs or pitching agencies.

That’s a Wrap!

If you’ve been putting off your writing portfolio, this is your sign to build or update it today.

Which format are you planning to use for your portfolio?

FAQs

Q: What’s the difference between a writing portfolio and a resume?
A writing portfolio shows your work in action. A resume talks about what you’ve done, your portfolio proves it.

Q: Do I need a different portfolio for each niche?
Not always, but you can organize samples by category or maintain separate tabs/folders for each.

Q: How many samples should I include?
Aim for 4–8 strong, recent pieces. Quality over quantity.

Q: I don’t have experience. What should I do?
Write high-quality mock samples that showcase your content writing skills. Treat them as if they were paid work.