6 Things to Include in Your Writer's Portfolio

Full disclaimer: Up until recently, creating a writer’s portfolio wasn’t even on my radar. 

You’re probably asking yourself, “Why am I writing about it then?” I questioned myself if I’m being honest. But once I dove into how to create one, I quickly realized how much of a rabbit hole you can get yourself into when you first start exploring “how to build a writer’s portfolio.”

I Googled.

And wowzers, three hours later…. I was overloaded with information.

It felt like I had more questions than answers.

If this was my experience, it’s likely also been your experience. You probably have some beginner questions about how to build a portfolio, where to start, and how to stand out so you can land writing gigs. And THAT’S why I’m sharing what I’ve learned.

Let’s take a journey and figure this out together!

Why Every Beginner Writer Needs a Portfolio of Writing Samples

Why do we need a writer’s portfolio, really? It’s simple. Every potential writing client will ask you for examples of your published writing or writing samples in a portfolio. And if you’re new, you probably don’t have bylines out there to share. Without either, you won’t get many callbacks.

Writing your portfolio is a great first step into freelance writing, too, because…. Well, it gets you writing. Sometimes, diving in is the best way to get comfortable with writing and preparing a piece of content for anyone to read.

Here’s where that aforementioned Google search and rabbit hole usually takes some crazy turns. Yes, there are TONS of insights out there about what to write, where to host a portfolio, and how to format them. But those tips can come later. For now, let’s just break it down to basics, ideal for those like me, just getting started.

1. First Impression- Introduce Yourself

Keep it simple. This is the first impression a potential writing client will have to see who you are and what you do. For example: “I’m Jess, a freelance writer, specializing in blog writing.” Include a few tidbits about yourself and what you can contribute to their business.

This does not have to be long or go into great detail. A writer’s resume IS the writing (we’ll get to that). All you need is a brief introduction and a photo if you’d like. Easy peasy!

Tip: If you’re savvy, create a free WordPress landing page to host your digital portfolio.

2. Gather and Organize Your Writing Samples

This is the bread and butter of your writer’s portfolio. This is your writing chops resume, where you show what you can do with your writing. So, when you need ideas for what to include in your portfolio, start with topics you can write about well.

When you’re new to freelance writing, there’s a good chance you won’t have anything published. If you do, great! Start there. If you don’t, have no fear. We have all been in your shoes. There are some easy ways to get started.

Figure out something you’re interested in or passionate about at your core. For example, I love cooking, traveling, and this time of year, fantasy football (don’t judge). Write a few blogs, essays, or how-to’s about what interests you.

My blogs might look something like this:

• How to Make My Nana’s Chicken & Dumplings

• Top 10 Places to Travel in the U.S. in 2025

• Waiver Wire Players to Target in Week 15

Tip: Create a Google Drive for your samples so they are easily accessible from your portfolio.

3. Prioritize Quality over Quantity

It’s completely okay if you don’t have dozens of writing samples in your freelance portfolio. In fact, most businesses only care to see two or three of your very best examples.

A few quality pieces will always win over numerous mediocre ones. Plus, clients don’t have all the time in the world to read through a bunch of samples. So, when you sit down to write your samples, remember that this is your best writing foot forward.

Tip: Proofread everything! Simple mistakes will send the message that you didn’t care to be polished in your portfolio and, thus, will be careless with their assignments, too.

4. Find Ways to Stand Out

Clients who are looking for freelance writers go through portfolio after portfolio of writing samples. And as you can imagine, everyone’s “best work” will start to look eerily similar. Of all the nuggets of advice out there, this one is BIG.

You have to stand out. This could be through your writing or how you present yourself as a writer. You could include an interesting tidbit about yourself or write a piece that’s relatable to a large demographic of people.

Here are some of the best suggestions (thanks, Pajama Writer) to make your portfolio really look unique:

• Change up the type of samples you showcase, like a listicle, a how-to, and an essay.

• Throw some graphics in there if you’re confident in your Canva skills.

• Include a headshot of yourself to remind potential writing clients that you’re a real person.

• Include something geographic to demonstrate your location. (Maybe drop your favorite NFL teams or some notable landmark in your backyard.)

• Have pets? Dez drops pics of herself with her dog to appeal to any fellow “dog people.”

Tip: A clean, simple, and professional portfolio will always draw positive attention. Don’t embellish and instead be strategic about ways to personalize.

5. Include Testimonials

Testimonials are a great way to elevate your portfolio, give credibility to your writing, and build trust with potential clients. Even if you are new to the freelance writing world, you can still acquire some feedback. Ask mentors, teachers, professors, colleagues, or peers to review your writing and give their feedback. And for any writing you may have done in a career role, which won’t be applicable for use in your portfolio, can still be supplemented with a great one-liner from an old boss.

Tip: Especially when starting out, ask any new clients for short testimonials relating to your skills and reliability as you work together.

6. Keep Your Portfolio Up to Date

Once you’re off the ground and running, it’s important to keep your portfolio up to date. It will reflect the growth you’ve made as a writer and showcase your ongoing experience in the industry. Again, the writer’s resume IS the writing. As you move forward with your freelance journey and your writing evolves, your portfolio should reflect that.

Tip: When you’re exploring spec-writing platforms, any “rejected” articles you write that don’t get purchased can automatically be recycled to your writer’s portfolio.

Level-Up: Get the Guide!

A writer’s portfolio is essential for any freelance writer. It shows who you are as a writer, showcases your work, and shows what you can offer to potential clients. This is just the starting point to landing clients and making money as a writer.

Let us help you get started on your freelance journey with The Pajama Writer’s guide to Build Your Own Portfolio! Whether you’re looking to turn your writing passion into a full-time thing or just want a side hustle, The Pajama Writer is here to help.