Brands want to see what you can do before they choose you. A strong portfolio makes that decision easy. The good news is that you don't need to wait for big campaigns to build one. Every creator starts small.
What is a portfolio?
A portfolio is a collection of your best work. On Influentials, your profile and connected socials act as your portfolio: brands look at your recent content to see whether you suit them. Many creators also keep a separate portfolio, such as a simple web page, a document or a folder with their best videos, that they can share with brands outside the platform. You can upload your UGC as well via the Influentials platform.
Start without brands: make spec content
Spec content is content you make on your own initiative, without being commissioned by a brand. Use products you already have at home and make a video as if it were for a campaign. This lets you show what you can do, even before you've worked with brands. Make it clear that it's your own work and not a paid collaboration.
Take part in product campaigns
Campaigns with a product as compensation are a great way to gain experience, build your portfolio and collect reviews. They're especially valuable when you're just starting out.
Show variety
Brands look for different types of content. Show that you can do several formats, such as:
- Reviews that are honest and specific.
- Unboxings that build anticipation.
- Tutorials that explain something clearly.
- Testimonials that come across as credible.
- Different hooks for the same video.
Stay close to your niche
Variety in formats is good, but keep your portfolio recognizable. If you focus on food, show different types of food content. That way brands in your niche immediately see that you're a good match.
Quality over quantity
A few strong videos say more than lots of average ones. Only show your best work, and remove older content that no longer reflects your level.
Update regularly
Your skills grow with every campaign. Update your portfolio regularly with your latest and best work, so brands always see where you stand now.
Show results where possible
Did a video perform well? Mention it, for example with the number of views or the engagement. Results show brands that your content works. Only share figures from your own channels, and only share campaign results if the brand has given permission.
Ask permission for campaign content
Content you've made for a brand can't always be shown in your portfolio. Some campaigns are confidential, or the brand has agreed usage rights. Check the brief, and when in doubt, ask the brand first.
Common mistakes
Watch out for a portfolio with only one type of content, showing weak or outdated work, not updating your portfolio, sharing campaign content without permission, and presenting spec content as a paid collaboration.
Ready to start? Sign up as a creator and get matched with brands looking for content like yours.