How to Create a Portfolio Website (For Freelancers)
Your portfolio website is your most important sales tool. Here's what to include and the best platforms to build it on.
2 min read · Updated
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Short answer
Build your portfolio on Squarespace or Behance (free, for designers). Include 3–5 of your best projects with results, not just screenshots. Add a clear contact CTA on every page.
What to include
Home page:
- Who you are and what you do (one sentence)
- Your best work visible immediately
- A clear CTA: "Hire me" or "Get in touch"
Portfolio/Work page:
- 3–5 projects (quality over quantity)
- For each project: the problem, your solution, the result
- Include metrics where possible ("increased conversion rate by 35%")
About page:
- Your story and expertise (briefly)
- Who you work best with
- A photo (clients want to know who they're hiring)
Contact page:
- Simple form or just your email
- Response time expectation
- LinkedIn link
Best platforms for portfolio websites
| Platform | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Squarespace | $16–$49/month | All creatives, most polished |
| Behance | Free | Designers (built-in community) |
| Dribbble | Free/Pro | UI/UX and visual designers |
| Wix | $17+/month | Budget option |
| Cargo | $13/month | Experimental/artistic portfolios |
| Custom WordPress (via Bluehost) | $3–$15/month | Developers who want full control |
The biggest portfolio mistake
Showing every project you've ever done. A portfolio of 10 mediocre projects is worse than 3 great ones. Curate ruthlessly — only show work you're proud of and that represents the clients you want to attract.
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