Skip the Portfolio: 7 Powerful Ways to Show Your Skills

If you’ve ever felt the pressure to create some kind of a dazzling data analytics portfolio, you’re not alone. I have a love-hate relationship with them – okay, mostly hate. But I keep seeing this advice over & over.

The truth is, while portfolios can be a fantastic tool to kick-start your career or pivot to a new job, they’re not the end-all-be-all. If you’re juggling a full-time job, spending extra hours on a portfolio can be daunting. It may feel more like a stumbling block than a stepping stone. This article highlights alternatives to data analyst portfolios.

That’s why in this article, I’ll share a different route. Here you’ll find time-friendly alternatives to a portfolio that feel better than another task on your packed to-do list. They work whether you’re bound by confidentiality, short on time, or over the traditional portfolio idea. There are other ways to prove your data analyst abilities.

If you DO want advice on creating a high-impact portfolio without spendings hours each evening, I’ve got an article in the works. It’s from the perspective of a hiring manager, so sign up to subscribe to be first to know.

Get access to the log I have used to keep track of my projects for years here.

Why Do You Need a Portfolio?

Portfolios are a staple in the ‘how to become a data analyst’ playbook. In fact, during my master’s program, creating a diverse portfolio from my career & academic experience was a graduation prerequisite. The idea is that you have a tangible way to show a potential employer that you know what you’re talking about. This advice is not totally off base.

A portfolio, at its core, is your professional highlight reel. It’s a collection of your projects, case studies, and analyses to show off your data analytics expertise.

For newcomers in the field or those looking to switch lanes in their career, it’s a visual resume that says, “Hey, look what I can do!” It’s tangible proof of your skills, from your skills using tools like Python or Power BI, to your knack for turning data into insights.

Challenging the Portfolio Norm: Why It Might Not Be Essential

But, this is where I hit the brakes. Portfolios are often sold as some kind of golden ticket. I’m here to share – That is NOT a certainty. You can not share specific projects done for other companies, so you’re only showing academic projects or your pet projects.

I’d like to suggest a different mindset around portfolios.

• They CAN be a conversation starter.
• They CAN be career trackers, helping you track your achievements over time.
• They CAN help you stand out in a sea of resumes & LinkedIn profiles.
• They CAN give you confidence in what you can do as you’re learning.

Portfolios ARE NOT a surefire path to a high-flying career. This idea becomes even more skewed when we look at the unspoken expectation that surrounds them – the idea that we’re all supposed to tirelessly grind after hours, curating and perfecting our portfolio.

This expectation blatantly overlooks the diversity in our lives. Not everyone has the luxury of spare time after work. Think of the single parent balancing a demanding job with family responsibilities, the professionals caring for elderly relatives, or those who value a healthy work-life balance.

The assumption that everyone can, or should, devote their evenings to building a portfolio is not only unrealistic but can be exclusionary.

So if the thought of a portfolio makes you groan, you’re in good company. I’ll share what has worked for me as an analyst & what has stood out for me as an analytics hiring manager. There are viable, practical alternatives to portfolios for data analysts that fit within your life, and I’m here to dive into them with you.

Alternatives to Data Analyst Portfolios

Since a portfolio highlights what you know, you’re on the lookout for ways to showcase what you know without starting a project from scratch. Also recognizing that creating a portfolio doesn’t always fit into everyone’s lifestyle, commitments, or circumstances, the list has practical alternatives to a data analyst portfolio. All need some level of effort, but I challenge you to think through each to decide if it is easy enough to fit into your life without being disruptive.

From leveraging the power of certifications to engaging in community forums, these alternatives not only display your data analytics expertise but also respect the diversity of your professional journey and personal life. Whether you’re navigating confidentiality agreements, juggling family commitments, or seeking more time-efficient ways to show your skills, the following options offer flexible and effective ways to stand out in the field of data analytics without the traditional portfolio.

1. Certifications

I have to start by defining what kind of certification. There are a lot of courses catering to those that hope to become a data analyst, and they throw in a certificate at the end. I’m not saying you won’t learn something from the courses, but a random certificate from a course on Udemy will not impress a hiring manager.

A well-known option like Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate might be more recognizable at least, but the certificates I’m referring to are those specific to desirable software companies use.

I first worked towards a Tableau Desktop certification because I loved Tableau that much when I started creating with it. Through my master’s program, I was able to earn 2 SAS certifications & a SQL certification. Why do I mention them? Because I know that I got my foot in the door for 3 interviews with them. At 2 companies, the Tableau certificate held weight. At 1 company, the SAS certifications held weight. I can attribute them fantastic raises & career growth, so I am a huge fan of this as an entry way.

Microsoft certifications around Power BI or their Data Analyst Associate have caught my eye as of late. You can find Salesforce certifications, Oracle SQL, etc.

Certifications are not easy, but they do serve as a verifiable skillset. So an employer isn’t hoping you know the tool & can apply the skills. You know the tool & they’re hoping they can ask the right questions around applying those skills.

For a certification to fit into your life, can you study for this on-the-job? For my Tableau certificate, I used the free Tableau training to learn the tool. My boss wanted us to use it, so I was able to justify using personal development time at work with access to the licensed version. Tableau Public or Power BI are both available for free if you don’t have access to them already at work.

I’m currently working towards a Power BI certification. I don’t NEED it, but it’s a structured way to learn the tool alongside some dashboards I’m building professionally.

Certifications are more than just credentials. They show that you’re dedicated to tools & methodologies in data analytics that help you stand out.

2. Detailed Project Tracking

Now let’s pivot to a strategy that’s often overlooked but powerful: Tracking your work. 😂 It’s not flashy like a big educational achievement or certificate but hear me out!

I can’t share details of my work publicly. I can keep a log of what I’ve worked on. I can put wins on my resume. I can use it to talk about my career journey. I forget what I worked on a decade ago, but I still had analytics impact that shouldn’t be forgotten. I like to think of this as personal career-tracking tool. In it, there are details on the objectives, tools used, challenges faced & outcomes.

Why is this approach a game-changer? First, it’s tangible. By documenting projects in this way, you are thinking through tangible evidence around your impact. It gives you the language & confidence when talking about your career. A physical version can even show prospective employers that you’re not just about talk; you have a track record of real, impactful work. It’s proof, without the intellectual property issues that often go with portfolio pieces.

Second, it’s a fantastic way to articulate your growth and learning journey. Each project is a chapter of your career story, showcasing how you’ve evolved as a data analyst, the complex problems you’ve solved, and the value you’ve added to businesses.

Now, how do you start? Keep it simple. Create a spreadsheet or document. For each project, note down the key details:

1. What was the project about?
2. What tools did you use?
3. What challenges did you have to overcome?
4. What were the results?

Think of it as creating a mini case study for each project.

Of course, confidentiality is key. You don’t need to spill trade secrets to prove your expertise. Focus on the skills and strategies you employed, rather than sensitive data or proprietary information.

Show your journey in a structured, concise & compelling way by logging your projects from here on at least! This is a high-impact option that won’t take too long as you wrap up a project or assignment. Log the work through asking yourself the 4 questions before you call it a day.

3. From Blogging to Byte-Sized Insights: Sharing Expertise on Social Media

Let’s pivot to something more casual yet impactful: sharing your data analytics expertise . Think about blogging or social media as byte-sized bursts. They fit into your life, even if that means crafting them while lounging on the couch with Netflix playing in the background at 8 PM.

You can think of the options as microblogging on LinkedIn or X or full-on blogging through a traditional blog.

Social media platforms, especially professional ones like LinkedIn, have revolutionized how we share knowledge and build networks. They offer a less intimidating, more flexible way to show your expertise compared to traditional blogging. Here’s the beauty of it – you’re not committing to lengthy articles. Instead, you’re diving into microblogging: short, insightful posts or articles that pack a punch.

If you’re a fan of writing, blogs can be a creative alternative to a portfolio, too. Blogging isn’t just about writing; it’s about storytelling. It’s your platform to dissect complex data topics, share insights, and even walk through your problem-solving process. And guess what? It’s a fantastic way to prove your expertise without having to reveal any confidential data. Like writing an article on alternatives to portfolios to try to change expectations in the field for analysts & hiring managers. 😊

And here’s where the lifestyle-friendly aspect shines. This approach doesn’t need a dedicated chunk of your day. You can draft a quick post in your downtime, during a coffee break, or yes, in those relaxed evening hours. It’s the kind of flexibility that suits those of us with limited time for career development.

The key is consistency and authenticity. Regular posts, even short ones, keep you visible and relevant. They position you as someone who’s not only skilled but also engaged with the latest in the field. Plus, social media allows your personality to shine through.

Now, if you’re thinking, “But I’m not a writer,” don’t sweat it. Your writing, your rules. It doesn’t have to be a literary masterpiece. It’s about authenticity and sharing your professional journey in your voice. And the best part? You can do it on your schedule, perfect for those of us who can’t afford or don’t want to spend every evening on career-related tasks.

So, how do you get started? Pick a platform – WordPress, X, LinkedIn articles – the options are plenty. Find your niche, something you’re passionate about in data analytics, and start. Your first few posts will not be perfect, and that’s okay. It’s a learning curve, and with each post, you’ll find your groove.

4. Smart Use of Public Platforms: Tableau Public, GitHub & more

For those who love working on pet projects or coding after hours, platforms like Tableau Public & GitHub are a creative outlet. They serve two purposes: fulfilling your passion and showcasing your skills.”

Starting with Tableau Public – it’s not just a tool; it’s a canvas for your data artistry. Here, you can experiment with personal projects or interesting public datasets. This is where you can let your creativity run wild, building visualizations that not only showcase your technical skills but also your ability to tell a story with data. It’s your gallery, and each visualization is a testament to your passion and skill. My favorite use of practicality meets expertise is resumes or career timelines. And then there is a the Hire Me element that at least shows that you’re open to work while you hone your skills.

Put your data viz portfolio to work for you. 🙌

Enable the Hire Me button on your @TableauPublic profile to show employers you’re open to work: https://t.co/A3fT1XWime pic.twitter.com/d3BYOIjzgu

— Tableau (@tableau) November 9, 2023

Then there’s GitHub, a staple for anyone who codes. It’s more than just a repository; it’s a testament to your coding journey. GitHub can reflect your coding skills and collaborative spirit.

What’s great about these platforms is they fit into your life as you want them to. If you enjoy exploring data or coding in your free time, these projects can be rewarding. They serve as both a satisfying hobby and an effective way to showcase your skills. They don’t demand daily updates – projects can make a strong impression.

The beauty here is in the flexibility and the joy of creation. They’re not only a showcase of your technical skills. They show your enthusiasm and commitment to data analytics.

So, if you’re inclined to create & share in this way, these platforms can be your digital workshop. Let your projects show your professional skills & connect you with those that share your passion.

5. Contribute to Forums & User Groups

Next up, let’s talk about an often underrated yet powerful tool for showcasing your skills: participating in forums and user groups. Sites like Stack Overflow, Reddit’s data science communities, and even specific LinkedIn groups offer a space where you can share your knowledge, answer questions, and engage in discussions about data analytics.

The beauty of this approach? It’s less about creating and more about interacting. You’re helping others & demonstrating your expertise and thought process.

And let’s not forget about local or online user groups and meetups. Leading a session or participating in panel discussions can boost your visibility. Plus, it’s a great way to network and stay abreast of what’s happening in the world of data analytics.

Brandi Beals hosts a virtual Data Book Club. And don’t forget about Tableau User Groups that operate both online & off to get started.

6. Creating Short-Form Case Studies/Project Summaries

If you enjoy turning the complex into concise, creating short-form case studies might be right up your alley. You focus on the objectives, your approach, the tools used, and the outcomes like the detailed log. The difference is that you’re focused more on the narrative of the project.

Remember, the key here is brevity and impact. You’re not writing a novel; you’re giving a snapshot that packs a punch. Think of it as creating an elevator pitch for each project. You can anonymize data or use hypothetical scenarios to illustrate your points.

Share summaries on your LinkedIn profile, personal blog, or even as part of your resume. You don’t need many to show your skills & highlight your ability to think strategically and achieve results.

7. Professional Networking

Never underestimate the power of good old-fashioned networking. Attending industry conferences, webinars, and local meetups can open up doors. The key to networking is engaging – not just showing up.

Ask questions, share your thoughts, and exchange contact information.

And in today’s digital world, networking extends to online platforms too. Engaging on LinkedIn, X/Twitter, and other social networks can be as effective. Share your work, comment on others’ posts, and build relationships.

Sometimes, a simple conversation can lead to your next big opportunity.

Beyond the Portfolio: Alternatives to Data Analyst Portfolio

Data analytics is a very broad field, and thankfully so are the ways that you can show your skills. Certifications, blogging, networking & a host of other options give you a chance to pick & choose what you’re willing to do AND have time to do. You do have to do something, or you better be a fantastic interviewee!

The goal is to tell the story of your professional journey in a way that’s authentic to you. So, choose the methods that suit you best & start building your unique brand in the world of data analytics.

We’re all about helping people grow! Grab the detailed project tracker template here (Google Doc) to start tracking today. And comment with strategies you’ve found to work in the comments below to help others in the community.