Job Hunt Series:  Show, Don’t Tell

Job Hunt Series: Show, Don’t Tell

In today’s competitive job market, saying you’re “great at your job” isn’t enough. Hiring managers want proof. That’s where the principle of show, don’t tell comes in—demonstrating your skills, results, and impact with tangible examples.

Build an Online Portfolio

An online portfolio is your professional story in action. Even for non-design roles, you can showcase your work with case studies, reports, presentations, or project summaries. Platforms like LinkedIn, personal websites, or Notion can be your canvas. The key is clarity: each example should highlight your role, the challenge, the solution, and the measurable result.

Share Mini Case Studies

Numbers speak louder than adjectives. Instead of writing “I improved engagement,” show it:

  • Increased social media engagement by 35% over 3 months
  • Streamlined a reporting process, saving the team 10 hours per week
  • Led a cross-functional project that boosted revenue by $25K

Even small wins matter—document them, package them clearly, and share them with confidence.

Make It Easy to Access

Think of your portfolio as your on-demand elevator pitch. Include links in your resume, LinkedIn profile, or email signature so potential employers can see your impact before an interview. Accessibility and professionalism make a difference.

Stand Out with Storytelling

Numbers tell part of the story—but context makes it compelling. Frame your examples around challenges, creativity, and results. The combination of narrative + measurable results shows not only what you did, but how you think and problem-solve.

Takeaway: In a crowded job market, actions speak louder than words. By building a portfolio and sharing mini case studies, you give employers proof of your skills, your impact, and your potential—making it easier for them to say yes.