1. Tell a Visual Story
Designers tell visual stories, so our design directors pay attention to the overall presentation of your work just as much as they do the details. Your portfolio should be easy to navigate, and its layout should showcase your command of design principles. – PepsiCo Design + Innovation
Your portfolio should be more than a collection of projects; it should be a narrative. Guide the viewer through your creative process, highlighting your ability to craft cohesive and engaging visual stories.
2. Cultivate a Distinct Voice
When I come across a portfolio with a truly distinct voice, it immediately sparks my curiosity. – Courtney “CJ” Jimerson, Senior Design Director, Gatorade
Let your unique perspective shine. What sets you apart? Infuse your personality into your work, making it memorable and sparking curiosity.
3. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity
When it comes to your portfolio, I’d rather see five of your best-executed projects than ten inconsistent ones. – Tom O’Quinn, Design Director, Global Design Comms
Curate your portfolio meticulously. Focus on your strongest work, showcasing projects that demonstrate your expertise and relevance to the roles you seek. Relevance is key.
4. Highlight Your Unique Strengths
We’re looking for designers with a clear point of view. Let your portfolio become a jumping-off point for conversations about your passion for design and sources of inspiration. When your work demonstrates your unique perspective and personality, it almost always leads to an engaging interview process. – PepsiCo Design + Innovation
Your portfolio should be a conversation starter. Highlight what you’re passionate about and what inspires you. This will lead to more engaging and meaningful discussions.
5. Pay Attention to Detail
The details distinguish a good portfolio from a great one. You’re a designer, prove it. – Tim Arrowsmith, Design Director, PepsiCo Asia.
Attention to detail is paramount. Every element, from typography to layout, should reflect your design prowess. Proofread your work.
6. Showcase Strategic Thinking
A portfolio is engaging and catches our eye when it highlights that you know how to pair design craft with strategic thinking. Show us how you approach problems and creatively identify design solutions. And don’t forget to proofread. – PepsiCo Design + Innovation
Demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Show how you solve problems and develop innovative design solutions.
7. Emphasize Innovation
I want to see work that is different, innovative, and brings a distinct and holistic approach to solving a brief. – Maria Mas, Design Director, PepsiCo Europe
Showcase work that is innovative and demonstrates a unique approach to solving design challenges.
8. Demonstrate Versatility
Our designers work with several different brands, so we’re looking for portfolios that demonstrate versatility. Focus on distinction. If your portfolio doesn’t currently showcase the type of work you want to do, try developing your own concepts. Just make sure to show us you aren’t beholden to one design aesthetic. – PepsiCo Design + Innovation
Show your ability to adapt and work across different styles and brands. Versatility is a valuable asset in the design world.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Your Design Portfolio
Creating a strong Design Portfolio PepsiCo Insights recommends, is an ongoing process. By incorporating these insights from PepsiCo Design, you can craft a portfolio that not only showcases your talent but also tells a compelling story, highlighting your unique voice and strategic thinking. Remember, it’s about quality, relevance, and demonstrating your versatility.
For a visual representation of these tips and to see the original post, visit the PepsiCo Design Instagram account:
