How should I prepare my graphic design portfolio for a job interview?

Question

For example, should it be printed on 8 x 10 glossy and binded, or CD-ROM slide show, etc.

I need specifics: what kind of binder, paper stock, minimum amount of images, title page, I have no clue.

Answer 1

There are entire college level classes on preparing and effective portfolio. However, I will offer a few sugestions.

I suggest a larger format than 8 x 10, but not too much larger. An art director's desk is very busy, and it can be very awkward for them to have to clear off enough space for someone's 18 x 24 inch portfolio case. I suggest something like a professional, leather(ish) 16 x 20 loose leaf case with MOUNTED examples, of equal size. All mounting boards should be of the same, neutral color, or, at least, color coordinated. A rainbow of different color mounting boards can distract from the art work.

Limit the hard copy images to about a dozen. Too many can be overwhelming to the director who just wants to see the quality of your work, and not an entire history of what you have done.

Only include the BEST of the Best examples. If you have ANY doubt about a piece, leave it out. Try to tailor the portfolio to the agency you are showing. If it is a fashion design shop, they are not going to be impressed by your illustrations of hot rods, or wizards, or ponies. They are going to want to see how you depict fabric and how it moves and drapes against a human figure. They will want to know what kind of color sense you have and what your favorite pallettes are.

Student works are fine, as long as they are of high quality and relatively recent.

Since it can be risky to leave a portfolio of your valuabe originals, bring along a CD rom of the same works, PLUS, under a separate file, some more examples that the director can review at her or his leisure. You can invite the director to keep the CD. Be sure to stick a label on the disc with your contact information. You may consider designing and printing a resume, listing, either, your work experience, or a list of highlighted projects you have done. Also be sure to include the tools of the trade you have mastered, such as media, softare apps and platforms you know.

Answer 2

"CD-Rom business cards" with pdf slideshows are always a nice thing to leave with employers after an interview. For the actual portfolio, I would suggest tailoring it to the specific job you're going for in terms of types of things it contains. 11x17 portfolio pages are pretty much the standard thing. Definityly DO NOT print everything on glossy paper! Makes your work look kind of cheesy.
Just make sure during the interview that you really "sell" your work as they are paging through your portfolio. You'll have to do the same thing with your clients, so they want to see that you can make others interested in your work.

Answer 3

I think it should be in a physical form, in a portfolio, not a CD. There is a chance for technical difficulties with a CDROM.

Answer 4

You might get a clue from
http://www.interviewrx.com/index