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I've heard a few people mention bringing a portfolio to a job interview (generally, to academic interviews). Is this common? Recommended? If so, what should be in the portfolio?
I don't want to have one just to have one, but if the search committee is going to ask for it, I'd like to be prepared!
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I would make the added point, and one probably not in my original article, is to take the opportunity to ask the search committee what kinds of marketing publications they expect their librarians to produce, if any. Try to get a feel for what the library already produces and put in items you like to do that you think would add value to what is already being done there. I also have to reinforce that as with your resume, you need to tailor your portfolio to at least the type of library you're interviewing at, and preferably the specific position. Consider having pre-made portfolio "modules" that you can switch in and out depending on the position. Like, if you're trying to get any reference/public service position in an academic library, have pathfinders for social science resources, science resources, humanities resources, business resources, instructional guides/handouts for students and instructors, a few printouts of web pages you've done/contributed to if web development/services are required of the position, etc. Good luck!
Katie
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During my mlis course work (years ago  ), one of our assignments entailed creating a professional portfolio. Since that time I have taken a portfolio to every job interview; first a paper portfolio folder and now an electronic version burned to CD. With a CD, I am able to leave something tangible with search committee members to peruse after the interview. I agree with Katie, it is important to create your portfolio specifically for the job at hand. Be sure to address elements in the job announcement/description as well as things you would like to highlight.
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anothersearcher wrote:I've heard a few people mention bringing a portfolio to a job interview (generally, to academic interviews). Is this common? Recommended? If so, what should be in the portfolio?
I don't want to have one just to have one, but if the search committee is going to ask for it, I'd like to be prepared! Anything you can do to prove you fit an organization's needs and that you are a unique candidate is not a waste of time. Doing the extras will push one candidate ahead of another if everything else is equal.
Brian C. Gray Head of Reference & Engineering Librarian Kelvin Smith Library Case Western Reserve University http://blog.case.edu/bcg8bcg8@case.edu
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As a public library director, I very much like seeing a portfolio. I want a candidate who has a vision, maybe even something of an attitude, about the profession and what libraries should be doing over a candidate who is merely "taking up space" in a job slot. The portfolio helps prove the point.
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If you're applying for jobs that require web skills (or even if it's a preferred attribute), online portfolios are a great way to show off your skills while at the same time highlighting your skills in other areas. When I was looking for a job three years ago, I had one, and I think they've become even more common now.
I agree with librarybob; I think a lot of libraries are looking for people with energy and initiative and a point of view. Taking the initiative to create a portfolio (whether physical or web-based) shows off your skills and your passion for the profession.
Good luck!
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