Which is Better for a Graphic Designer: Behance or a Personal Portfolio Website?

For graphic designers, showcasing your work is key to landing your dream job and securing clients. But with so many options available, deciding whether to use Behance or create a personal portfolio website can be challenging. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of both methods, providing you with the insights needed to make an informed decision.

Popular Platforms for Graphic Design Portfolios

There are numerous options for creating a graphic design portfolio website. Some of the most popular platforms include:

Behance

Behance is a widely recognized social media platform that caters to creative professionals. It is an excellent choice for highlighting your design work and connecting with potential clients. Internally, it is used as a platform for showcasing your design projects and sharing them with the world. However, it primarily functions as a social media network, which means it includes social media features like likes, commentary, and engagement. This can sometimes dilute the focus on your work, making it harder for clients to evaluate your capabilities solely based on your projects.

Adobe Portfolio

Adobe Portfolio is a free website builder specifically designed for graphic designers. It offers a variety of templates and features that make it easy to create a professional-looking portfolio. This platform is advantageous for those who want to maintain full control over the design and layout of their portfolio, ensuring a consistent and polished look.

Squarespace

Squarespace is a popular website builder known for its variety of templates and design features. It is an excellent option for designers who desire more control over the design of their portfolio. With a vast array of customization options, you can tailor each page to your liking, making your portfolio stand out even more.

Wix

Wix is another popular website builder that offers a range of templates and features to create a portfolio website. It is ideal for designers who want a quick and easy way to launch their portfolio. However, it may offer fewer design customization options compared to Squarespace.

Portfoliobox

Portfoliobox is a website builder specifically designed for portfolios. It provides a variety of templates and features that make it easy to create a professional-looking portfolio. This platform is particularly useful if your primary goal is to showcase your work without needing extensive technical skills.

Creating Your Portfolio

Once you have selected a platform, the next step is to create your portfolio. Here are some tips to ensure your portfolio stands out:

Use High-Quality Images: Your portfolio should showcase your best work, so make sure the images you use are of high quality. Keep it Concise: Your portfolio should be easy to scan. A good rule of thumb is to keep your portfolio to two or three pages. Use Keywords: When creating your portfolio, use keywords that potential clients might search for. This will help your portfolio appear in search results. Promote Your Portfolio: Once your portfolio is live, promote it through social media, your resume, and business cards. Ensure that potential clients can easily find and contact you.

Conclusion

Choosing between Behance and a personal portfolio website depends on your specific goals and needs. Behance is excellent for networking and showcasing your work in a social context, while a personal portfolio website gives you more control over the design and appearance of your portfolio. By following the tips above, you can create a compelling graphic design portfolio that will help you secure the job or client you desire.