Graduate CV and Portfolio Tips

It’s that time of year when we see an influx of freshly graduated designers from all the sectors we operate within.

With so much competition for job roles, it is important to make yourself stick out from the crowd. So we have put together a few simple tips/rules to follow when putting together the CV and Portfolio you hope will land you your first job within the industry you have studied to hard to be a part of….

For this blog I will be focussing on Interior Design (after all, its what I know best) so it is important to remember this when applying this to the type of sector you are looking to work within.

1. Focussing your CV and Portfolio

There are always parts of the design process you either enjoy more than others or you are naturally more drawn to, be that due to having an eye for it or an interest in that phase of a project. These could be:

• Planning Phase

• Concept Development Phase

• Design Development

• Construction Documentation

• Executive

It is important to focus your CV and portfolio on what it is you want to do, making sure you highlight all you’ve learnt and experienced throughout your course. What this will do is attract the right type of companies when your details are being shared by an agency or yourself by putting your best foot forward.

2. Your Portfolio

When I try to think of ways to improve or even begin putting together a portfolio (I know, this can be daunting) these are the points that come to mind:

• This is an opportunity to showcase your skillset and interests

• Make sure the reviewer knows what they are looking at

• Highlight anything you are particularly proud of

• Show the wide range of your skillset

• If you specifically mention in your CV an ability to do something, showcase this in your portfolio (tie them together)

• Always leave them wanting more…

3. Where can I find a job and how do I apply?

First things first… check out our website (and any other specialist agencies) for Graduate level jobs! And don’t forget that we are always picking up new roles so it might be worth signing up to notifications or keeping in touch with consultants like myself by contacting 0117 929 6060 or emailing your info to [email protected]!

As well as this, check out dedicated design websites such as dezeen jobs or design week.

Another way to find jobs (especially if you are looking your current area or want to limit how far you have to travel is to check out Google Maps for Interior Design firms. Or head over to job boards such as Total Jobs, Indeed, Reed and have a look at the radius settings. Finally, if you feel up to the challenge… approach direct! By phone, email and then phone again!

For more information on how we could help you in your search or to find out what jobs we have to offer you right now, contact us! 0117 929 6060 or [email protected].

This blog was written by Phil Boshier, Team Leader – mustardID. Phil is always keen to speak with candidates or clients within his division so if you want to reach him directly, please do so at [email protected] or on 0117 284 0076.