How to build a coding portfolio that stands out
Learn how to create a coding portfolio that showcases your skills, problem-solving abilities, and certifications to impress employers and advance your tech career.
If you're dreaming of a career in tech or looking to take your coding skills to the next level, curating a standout portfolio is one of the most powerful steps you can take. Your coding portfolio serves as a window into your abilities, creativity, and dedication. Think of it as a chance to tell your professional story.
At Learning People, we understand the importance of making a strong impression on hiring managers, and we're here to help you showcase your skills with confidence. So, let’s look at how you can build a coding portfolio that gets noticed for the right reasons.
Written by
Polly is a Marketing Executive at Learning People, bringing extensive expertise in professional training and career development, including in-demand fields like data, tech, cyber security, cloud computing, project management, and business skills.
Show your problem-solving skills
Hiring managers want to see how you think, as well as what technical knowledge you have, and your portfolio is the perfect place to demonstrate this. Don’t just display your finished projects – include details about the challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
For example, if you created a web application, explain how you handled difficult or fiddly elements like responsive design or database integration. Use a project write-up to describe your approach: What problem were you solving? Why did you choose a particular coding language or framework? This insight can set you apart by showing your ability to think critically and tackle real-world problems.
If you've completed certifications like CompTIA Data+, mention how these qualifications equipped you with tools to handle data analysis challenges, and show examples of how you applied those skills in a portfolio project.
Include live projects
There’s something powerful about letting your work speak for itself. While screenshots of your code or static pages are useful, a live project gives potential employers a hands-on way to experience your skills.
Deploy your applications on platforms like GitHub Pages or Netlify and include live links in your portfolio. For example, if you built an e-commerce website during your training, ensure it’s online and fully functional. A polished, interactive project can highlight your attention to detail and bring your work to life.
Remember to keep the user experience smooth. A buggy or incomplete project could leave a poor impression, so test everything thoroughly before you share it.
Tailor your portfolio to your goals
It’s tempting to show everything you’ve ever created, but a targeted portfolio is far more effective. Consider the type of coding role you’re pursuing and focus on projects that showcase the skills most relevant to that role.
For those looking to break into web development, consider including examples that range from simple, elegant websites to more complex applications. Explain the technology stack you used, such as HTML, CSS, or JavaScript.
Showcase teamwork and collaboration
While technical ability is crucial, employers also value soft skills, or “power skills”, like communication and teamwork. If you’ve collaborated on a group project – perhaps during your studies or as part of a certification programme – make sure to include it in your portfolio.
Highlight what your role was within the team. Did you lead on front-end development? Or maybe you took charge of integrating APIs? Being clear about your contributions can help employers see how you’d fit into their teams.
You can also demonstrate collaborative coding through your GitHub profile. Document your code reviews, pull requests, and contributions to open-source projects. This is a subtle yet effective way to show you’re comfortable working in a professional coding environment.
Add a touch of your personality
Your portfolio isn’t just about showing what you can do – it’s about who you are. Employers love seeing candidates who are genuinely passionate about their work, so use your portfolio as an opportunity to let your enthusiasm shine through.
Consider adding a short “About Me” section where you share your journey into coding, what excites you about technology, and your future aspirations. Keep the tone conversational but professional. This personal touch can help you connect with potential employers on a human level.
Also, don’t be afraid to include a passion project. If you built a mobile app for a hobby or created a website for a local charity, it shows initiative and love for the skill.
Keep it simple and professional
Your portfolio should be easy to navigate and nice to look at. A cluttered or confusing layout could overshadow the brilliant work you’re trying to showcase.
Stick to clean, modern design principles. Use consistent fonts, plenty of white space, and a logical flow. For inspiration, check out templates on platforms like Behance, or build your site from scratch if you’re up for the challenge.
Double-check every detail – from spelling and grammar to broken links. A well-polished portfolio demonstrates that you take pride in your work, and that level of professionalism won’t go unnoticed.
Build trust with certifications
Certifications are a fantastic way to validate your skills and boost credibility, especially if you’re just starting out. If you’ve earned industry-recognised certifications like those offered by Learning People, make sure they take pride of place in your portfolio.
You can include a dedicated section for certifications, complete with logos, issue dates, and links to verify your credentials. This reassures employers that your skills meet professional standards and that you’re committed to continuous learning.
For example, the Full Stack Developer programme we offer is a standout qualification that showcases your mastery of both front- and back-end technologies. Mentioning this certification in your portfolio gives it an extra layer of authority and relevance.
Keep evolving
The tech industry is constantly changing, and your portfolio should reflect that. Regularly update it with new projects, skills, or certifications. Even small improvements – like refining the UI of an older project – show that you’re proactive about staying current.
As you gain experience, you might discover better ways to organise or present your work. Don’t be afraid to experiment and refine your portfolio as your skills and career goals evolve.
Start building today
Creating a standout coding portfolio doesn’t have to be daunting. By showcasing your problem-solving skills, focusing on live and targeted projects, and building trust with certifications, you can make a lasting impression.
At Learning People, we’re here to help you unlock your potential. From hands-on coding courses to globally recognised certifications, we provide the tools and support you need to succeed. So why wait? Start building your dream portfolio – and your dream career – today.