How to Build a Writing Portfolio from Scratch

One of the first questions new freelance writers ask is: “How can I get clients if I don’t have a portfolio?”
It’s the classic chicken-and-egg problem — but the good news is, you don’t need paying clients to start building a strong writing portfolio. What you do need is a smart strategy, consistency, and a bit of creativity.

In this article, you’ll learn how to create a writing portfolio from scratch, even if you’ve never been paid to write before.

Why You Need a Portfolio

Your writing portfolio is your calling card. It shows potential clients:

• What kind of content you write
• Your tone and style
• The industries or topics you focus on
• Your professionalism and attention to detail

Without one, clients may skip over you — not because you’re not good, but because they can’t “see” your work.

Step 1: Decide What Kind of Writing You Want to Offer

Before you create samples, ask yourself:

• What type of writing do I enjoy?
• Do I want to write blog posts, web copy, emails, or something else?
• Do I want to specialize in certain industries (like health, tech, lifestyle)?

Your portfolio should reflect the work you want to get paid for. For example, if you want to write blog posts for the fitness industry, write samples that look like blog posts in that niche.

Step 2: Create 3–5 High-Quality Writing Samples

These samples don’t have to be published or paid. The goal is to show your writing ability.

Tips for writing your samples:

• Choose a real-world topic, as if you were writing for a client.
• Make it about 700–1000 words — short, but with substance.
• Format it well: use headings, short paragraphs, and bullet points.
• Write in a tone that matches your ideal client (casual, professional, friendly, etc.).
• Add value! Make the content useful to the reader.

Example topics:

• “5 Simple Home Workouts for Busy Professionals” (for a fitness blog)
• “How to Set Up a Website in 30 Minutes” (for a tech blog)
• “Why Sleep Is the Secret to Better Productivity” (for a wellness blog)

Step 3: Choose Where to Host Your Portfolio

You have a few options here:

1. Free Platforms

• Medium: Easy to use and SEO-friendly.
• LinkedIn Articles: Great if you’re active on LinkedIn.
• Substack: Good if you want to turn your writing into a newsletter over time.

2. Your Own Website

If you want full control and a more professional appearance, build a simple website using:

• WordPress
• Carrd
• Wix
• Notion (yes, Notion can be turned into a portfolio!)

On your site, create a page called “Portfolio” or “Work Samples” and upload or link to your best writing.

Step 4: Add Variety (But Stay Focused)

Aim for 3 to 5 pieces that cover a few different angles, such as:

• A how-to guide
• A listicle
• A product review
• A case study or personal essay (if relevant)

But keep the overall focus tight — don’t jump from fashion to finance to food. Stick to one or two niches to show you’re serious and knowledgeable.

Step 5: Update It Regularly

Your portfolio is not a “set it and forget it” tool. As you get real client work, update it:

• Remove older or weaker samples
• Add your best paid projects
• Include client testimonials if available
• Link to published work on other sites (guest posts, blogs, etc.)

Clients love seeing real-world examples, so keep your portfolio fresh.

Step 6: Make It Easy to Access and Share

When you pitch clients or apply to gigs, don’t attach bulky files. Instead:

• Share a simple link to your portfolio
• Keep the layout clean and readable
• Add a short description for each piece (e.g., “Blog post – Health & Wellness”)

If you use a website, include your portfolio link in your email signature and social media bios.

Step 7: Include an “About Me” and Contact Info

Many writers focus only on the samples — but remember, clients are hiring you, not just your writing.

Include a brief “About Me” section that highlights:

• Who you are
• What kind of writing you do
• Who you help
• How to get in touch

Keep it short and client-focused — no need to write your life story.

Final Thoughts: Build While You Pitch

You don’t need to wait until your portfolio is “perfect” to start reaching out to clients. Start building as you pitch, and let it evolve with you.

Every writer starts from zero. The difference is who takes that first step. So create your samples, set up a simple page, and start showing the world what you can do.

Your writing portfolio is your first step toward turning your words into income — and now, you know exactly how to build it from scratch.