How Acceptable Is It to Send Your Portfolio with a Behance Link

In today's digital-first world, showcasing your work is essential, especially in creative fields. Gone are the days of physical portfolios collecting dust. Instead, online platforms like Behance have become the go-to for artists, designers, and creatives to present their skills and projects. But how acceptable is it to send a Behance link when applying for jobs or pitching to clients? Let's dive into that question and explore why your portfolio matters in the first place.

The Importance of a Portfolio in Creative Industries

A portfolio is not just a collection of your work; it's your personal brand, your story, and your ticket to new opportunities. Here's why having a well-curated portfolio is crucial in creative industries:

• First Impressions Matter: A well-organized portfolio can make a lasting impression on potential employers or clients. It's often the first thing they see, and it speaks volumes about your professionalism and attention to detail.
• Demonstrative Skills: Unlike a resume, which lists your experiences, a portfolio showcases your actual work. It allows you to demonstrate your skills, style, and creativity directly through visual examples.
• Flexibility: With a portfolio, you can tailor the content to suit the specific audience or job you’re targeting. This means you can highlight relevant projects that align with the job description, making your application stand out.
• Building Your Brand: Your portfolio reflects who you are as a creative. It can convey your unique aesthetic and approach, helping potential employers or clients understand your artistic voice.

In a competitive landscape, a robust portfolio can be the differentiator that sets you apart. It’s not just about what you’ve done; it’s about how you present it. A Behance link can be a perfect solution, blending accessibility with an appealing layout that can enhance your creative narrative.

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Understanding Behance as a Portfolio Platform

Behance is more than just a portfolio platform; it’s a vibrant community of creative professionals showcasing their work. Launched in 2005, it has grown into one of the most popular sites for artists, designers, photographers, and other creative individuals to gain visibility and network with peers.

One of the standout features of Behance is its user-friendly interface, which allows creatives to present their projects in a visually appealing manner. Here are some key benefits of using Behance:

• Exposure: With millions of users, you have the chance to reach a large audience of potential clients and recruiters.
• Networking: Behance encourages interaction through comments and appreciations, fostering connections with other creatives.
• Project Organization: You can categorize your work into projects, making it easy for viewers to navigate and appreciate your skills.
• Feedback Opportunities: Engaging with the community provides valuable insights and constructive criticism on your work.

However, it’s essential to note that while Behance is a powerful tool for creatives, it’s important to maintain your brand and style. Your portfolio should reflect your unique voice and aesthetic, ensuring that it stands out amidst the vast array of talent on the platform.

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When to Include a Behance Link in Your Submissions

Including a Behance link in your submissions can be a game-changer, but timing and context matter significantly. Here are some scenarios when it’s best to share your Behance portfolio:

• Job Applications: If you're applying for a creative role, a Behance link can showcase your work in a dynamic way that a resume cannot.
• Networking Events: When meeting potential clients or collaborators, sharing your Behance portfolio helps them quickly grasp your style and capabilities.
• Client Proposals: Including a link in proposals demonstrates your professionalism and provides clients with direct access to your previous work.
• Social Media Profiles: If you're using platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram, linking to your Behance can lead potential employers or clients directly to your comprehensive portfolio.

However, avoid including the link in situations where your audience may not be interested in reviewing a full portfolio, such as casual conversations or non-creative contexts. Always consider your audience and the platform before sharing your Behance link to ensure it enhances your personal brand.

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5. Dos of Sending Your Portfolio with a Behance Link

When it comes to sending your portfolio via a Behance link, a few key practices can make your submission shine. Here’s a handy list of dos to ensure you present your work in the best light:

• Do Customize Your Presentation: Tailor your message for the recipient. A brief note about why you’re sending your portfolio provides context, showing you respect their time.
• Do Highlight Key Projects: In your email, mention specific projects from your Behance portfolio that align with the interests or needs of the recipient. This showcases your relevance and understanding of their expectations.
• Do Use a Professional Email Address: Ensure that the email you’re sending from reflects professionalism. An address like [email protected] is much more credible than something quirky.
• Do Provide Additional Contact Information: Make it easy for the recipient to reach you if they want to discuss your work further. Include your phone number or LinkedIn link for easy access.
• Do Keep It Simple: Avoid overloading your message with too much information. A clean, direct approach makes it easier for the recipient to focus on your work.

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6. Don'ts of Sending Your Portfolio with a Behance Link

While there are plenty of dos to consider, it’s equally important to avoid common pitfalls when sending your portfolio. Here’s what not to do:

• Don’t Send Mass Emails: Sending a generic email to multiple recipients can come off as impersonal. Always personalize your approach to make a better impression.
• Don’t Rely Solely on the Link: Just sending the link without any introduction or context can feel lazy. Always include a brief note explaining your intent.
• Don’t Use Unprofessional Language: Keep your tone professional and respectful. Avoid slang, overly casual phrases, or emojis in your email.
• Don’t Make It Hard to Navigate: Ensure the Behance link works and that your portfolio is easy to navigate. A complicated layout can frustrate potential employers or clients.
• Don’t Forget to Follow Up: If you haven’t received a response after a week or two, a gentle follow-up can show your enthusiasm and remind them of your work.

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7. Best Practices for Presenting Your Behance Portfolio

Creating a stunning Behance portfolio is just the first step; how you present it can make all the difference. Here are some best practices to ensure your portfolio shines:

• Choose a Strong Cover Image: Your cover image is the first thing potential clients or employers will see. Make it visually striking and representative of your best work.
• Organize Your Projects Logically: Group similar projects together. For example, if you’re a designer, consider categorizing your work into branding, web design, and illustrations.
• Write Compelling Project Descriptions: Each project should have a brief description that outlines the problem you solved and the skills you used. Use a conversational tone to engage your audience.
• Showcase Your Process: Don’t just display the final product; include sketches, drafts, or mood boards. This gives viewers insight into your creative process.
• Keep It Updated: Regularly update your portfolio with new projects and remove older, less relevant ones. This shows growth and keeps your portfolio fresh.
• Engage with the Community: Behance is a social platform. Comment on other artists’ work and respond to comments on yours. Building relationships can lead to networking opportunities.
• Optimize for SEO: Use keywords in your project titles and descriptions. This helps your work appear in searches, increasing visibility.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your Behance portfolio not only showcases your skills but also resonates with your audience.

8. Conclusion

In the end, sending your portfolio with a Behance link can be a fantastic way to showcase your work, provided you approach it thoughtfully. It’s about striking the right balance between accessibility and professionalism.

Remember, while Behance offers a streamlined platform for visual work, the way you present it matters immensely. Ensuring your profile is polished, up-to-date, and well-organized can significantly enhance the impression you leave on potential clients or employers. So, make sure to:

• Maintain a cohesive aesthetic.
• Highlight your best work.
• Communicate clearly.

As long as you keep these considerations in mind, including a Behance link in your applications or emails can be a powerful addition. Embrace the platform and let your creativity shine!