What to Look For
Must Have
- Problem definition: Can they articulate the problem?
- Process evidence: Did they show how they got to the solution?
- Decision reasoning: Can they explain WHY, not just WHAT?
- Impact: What happened after they shipped?
Nice to Have
- Visual craft and polish
- Research and data references
- Before/after comparisons
- Honest reflection on what worked and didn't
Red Flags
- No problem definition (jumps straight to visuals)
- No mention of users, data, or outcomes
- All projects look the same (one style applied everywhere)
- Can't distinguish their work from team work
- Defensive about feedback in interview
Portfolio Structure Advice
- 3-4 case studies (quality over quantity)
- Most impressive work first
- Each case study: Problem → Process → Solution → Impact → Reflection
- 1,500-2,500 words per case study
- Show the messy middle, not just the polished end
- Include one project that failed and what was learned
Interview Questions
- 'Walk me through your decision on [specific element]'
- 'What would you do differently?'
- 'What constraints did you face?'
- 'How did you handle [disagreement/feedback]?'
- 'Show me something you're proud of that nobody notices'