October 1, 2025
How to Unify Client Projects, Passion Projects, and Experiments
Content
Table of contents
Introduction
In this portfolio review, I connect with recent graduate Liam to optimize his portfolio website to attract potential employers and secure more interviews. While the bones are there, a few key tweaks can really elevate his presentation.
First, I suggest redesigning the homepage to immediately showcase Liam's best projects. Thumbnail images linking to case studies make a stronger first impression than text-heavy tiles. I also recommend merging his client and personal projects into one cohesive portfolio section for a more fluid, impactful viewing experience.
Within projects, I'd love to see Liam's logo design process articulated in more depth. Sharing his concepting methodology and iterations will create connection. I also advise displaying work in realistic mockups to contextualize deliverables.
Finally, I propose creating a separate "playground" blog to house Liam's explorations and behind-the-scenes snippets. This keeps the main portfolio focused while still inviting a peek into his process.By. Implementing these hierarchy, organization, and content updates, Liam's portfolio will put his skills front and center and make a memorable impression on hiring managers. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Key Points
How to format your design portfolio website homepage.
What design projects to showcase and how on your design portfolio website.
Presenting your process and not just final deliverables.
How to present deliverables in-situation.
To Think On
What are your top 3-4 projects? What is the work you want to do more of?
How can you tell more of a story when presenting a design project?
What are the different steps you took along the way of a design project that got you from start to finish?
Actionable
Feature your 3-4 best projects on your design portfolio website homepage.
Provide more context and description about your process in your design projects. Imagine walking a friend or family member through the project and what you would point out to them.
Consider creating a 'blog' page to showcase your visual exercises and passion projects, separate from the work you want to show clients.

meet the design guy
Jon Sorrentino
I'm a product designer partnering with founders worldwide. I've led design at PepsiCo, Barstool Sports and high-growth startups. I believe the best design happens when you keep your hands in the work.
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