Curation Counts

As someone who has employed others, the value of an updated e-Portfolio can be the difference between whether or not an applicant gets an interview. In recent years, the office for which I work has interviewed for varied administrative positions. My first experience of someone offering his or her e-Portfolio came from someone using a Google Sites platform. She received an interview and inspired me to develop my own. Though a very boxy platform, I was proud to lay out my job skills and in essence show my ability to use tools within Google. My Google Site is still uploaded today, but within months of its creation three years ago, it became a bit outdated and I would not feel comfortable sharing this e-Portfolio with a prospective employer without major updates. Link

Taking time to curate counts. When I was introduced to Wix for developing an e-Portfolio last semester, my only challenge was to narrow down my design theme as there are so many to choose from. I was impressed by the ease for laying out information creatively because the user does not have to be familiar with html code. With an almost Microsoft Powerpoint feel, I am able to develop information in text boxes allowing for easy updates and changes. That leads me to a point regarding curation. I am more likely to go back and complete updates occasionally if the process is not time consuming. Since last semester, job titles have changed, I have developed new media, and thought more about website design elements that may better suit me. Wix is easy to use, which results in my willingness to complete updates, equating to an accurate representation of who I am professional that I am proud of. Because I am proud of this product, I am more likely to spend time working on it.

For this curation assignment, I have decided to develop new pages that previously directed the viewer to my old Google site. They include pages involving my experience at teaching dance, working at Weight Watchers, and expanded information on technology skills. For technology in particular, sites like e-Portfolios are effective in demonstrating media and communication skills which are important for me in highlighting my abilities. In addition to copying this data over to Wix, it was painfully obvious that several things needed updating. Moreover, I think the Wix design is visually pleasing and these new pages keep with the design theme of the site. I am highly confident about being able to build the next pieces of the e-portfolio which will focus on the LeADERS Program at ODU.

Remember the person who inspired me to develop my first e-Portfolio? She received an interview and was offered a job within our organization. I would like to tell you how well she is working out but she ultimately declined our position because she was given a more lucrative offer at another organization. Putting that best foot forward likely gives a person greater opportunities for success.

Keep up your e-Portfolio because curation counts. It counts toward more lucrative job opportunities in your future.