Portfolio vs Resume - What's the difference?
One tells people what you've done. The other shows them what you can do.
The Core Difference
📄 Resume/CV
Lists what you've accomplished
- • Job titles and dates
- • Education and degrees
- • Skills and certifications
- • Awards and achievements
- • References and contact info
"Trust me, I'm qualified"
💼 Portfolio
Shows what you can create
- • Actual articles you've written
- • Videos and presentations
- • Research and analysis
- • Your thinking process
- • Real examples of expertise
"See for yourself what I can do"
Why Portfolios Are More Powerful
🎯 Proof Over Promises
Anyone can claim to be a "strategic thinker" or "excellent communicator" on their resume. A portfolio lets people judge for themselves by reading your strategic analyses or watching your presentations.
Resume says: "Excellent written communication skills"
Portfolio shows: 50 published articles people actually want to read
🧠 Intellectual Depth
Portfolios reveal how you think, not just what you've done. People can see your intellectual evolution, your unique perspectives, and your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.
Resume says: "5 years experience in fintech"
Portfolio shows: Thoughtful analysis of blockchain adoption, predictions that came true, innovative solutions you've proposed
🚀 Memorability
Resumes are forgotten. Great content is remembered. When someone reads your insightful article or watches your compelling presentation, they remember you as the person who taught them something valuable.
Resume: One of 100 similar-looking documents
Portfolio: "Oh, you're the person who wrote that brilliant piece about AI ethics!"
Do You Still Need a Resume?
Yes, for now. Many traditional hiring processes still require resumes. But smart employers increasingly want to see your actual work, not just your credentials.
The ideal approach: Use your portfolio to supplement your resume. Your resume gets you in the door, your portfolio gets you the job.
Pro tip: Add your Scribefully portfolio URL to your resume. Let hiring managers see your actual capabilities alongside your credentials.
Different Types of Professional Portfolios
📝 Content Creators
Writers, bloggers, journalists, podcasters
- • Published articles and essays
- • Podcast appearances and interviews
- • Speaking engagements and presentations
- • Social media influence and engagement
🎓 Academics
Researchers, professors, graduate students
- • Peer-reviewed publications
- • Conference presentations
- • Popular science writing
- • Media appearances and interviews
💼 Business Professionals
Consultants, executives, entrepreneurs
- • Industry insights and analysis
- • Case studies and success stories
- • Thought leadership content
- • Speaking and panel discussions
⚖️ Professionals
Lawyers, doctors, consultants, experts
- • Professional writing and commentary
- • Expert analysis and opinions
- • Media interviews and quotes
- • Educational content and explainers
Ready to build a portfolio that shows your expertise?
Stop just telling people about your qualifications. Show them what you can create.