In the world of Learning & Development, a resume is just a claim. A portfolio is the proof.

I launched my personal website back in 2008. At the time, it was essentially a glorified online resume, a static page listing where I’d worked and what I’d done. Over the years, as I transitioned from corporate trainer to eLearning designer, that website evolved. It stopped being a list of what I did and became a showcase of what I can do.

Today, my site is my strongest salesperson. It works while I sleep.

If you are an Instructional Designer or eLearning Developer without a portfolio, you are fighting with one hand tied behind your back. Here is why you need one, and how to build it, whether you have zero budget or are ready to go pro.

1. The “Own Your Name” Strategy

Before you build anything, go to a domain registrar (like Crazy Domains) and buy yourname.com

If your name is taken, try yournamedesign.com or yournamelearning.com. This is digital real estate. Even if you aren’t ready to build a website yet, buy the domain.

The LinkedIn Hack: The most basic form of a portfolio is your LinkedIn profile. But “linkedin.com/in/cathmellis” looks messy on a business card.

• The Fix: Buy your domain. Go into the DNS settings. Set up a Forwarding Rule to redirect your domain straight to your LinkedIn profile.
• The Result: You tell a client, “Check out my work at cathellis.com,” and they land on your polished LinkedIn profile. It costs about $20 a year and makes you look instantly professional.

2. Building on a Budget (Google Sites)

You do not need to spend a fortune to have a presence. If you are just starting out, Google Sites is your best friend.

• Pros: It is free, drag-and-drop, and integrates perfectly with Google Drive. You can host your videos, images, and documents for free and embed them easily.
• Cons: The design templates are limited, and the URL can be clunky (unless you connect that custom domain you just bought!).

It won’t win design awards, but it gets the job done. It allows you to move your work out of folders on your desktop and into a link you can share with a hiring manager.

3. The Pro Level (WordPress + Breakdance)

When you are ready to own your platform entirely, you can move to a website builder that suits your needs. There are loads of great options to choose from right now, such as Webflow, Framer, Wix or WordPress.

My current weapon of choice is WordPress, built with the Breakdance builder.

• Why Breakdance? It is lightweight, incredibly fast, and gives me pixel-perfect control over every element. I’m not fighting a rigid template; I’m designing an experience.
• The Benefit: A custom site allows you to install analytics (to see who is hiring you), capture leads, and create a visual brand that commands higher rates. It screams “Expert.”

What Actually Goes Inside? (The “Case Study” Method)

A common mistake is to dump a bunch of Articulate Storyline links on a page without context. That is not a portfolio; that is a file dump.

A hiring manager doesn’t just want to see the final product; they want to see your process. For every project, include:

1. The Challenge: What was the business problem? (e.g., “Sales staff were losing leads due to poor product knowledge.”)
2. The Solution: What did you build and why? (e.g., “A scenario-based mobile simulation using Evolve.”)
3. The Tools: List the software used (Storyline, Photoshop, Camtasia).
4. The Result: Did it work? (e.g., “Sales increased by 10%,” or “Learner satisfaction hit 4.8/5.”)

The Bottom Line: De-Risking the Hire

When a company is looking to hire a freelancer or a full-time ID, they are terrified of making a mistake. A resume tells them you claim to know Storyline. A portfolio shows them you know Storyline.

A portfolio removes the risk. It bridges the gap between “I think she can do it” and “I know she can do it.”

Whether it’s a simple redirect to LinkedIn or a custom Website, the important thing is to start. Your work deserves to be seen.

Does your website convert visitors into clients? Book a coaching session with me, and let’s review your portfolio to ensure it’s showcasing your best work effectively.