In December 1998 questionnaires were mailed to all English graduates from the past ten years. One question asked their opinions about using portfolios for job searches:
"Would you recommend that English majors create portfolios of their best work to use when applying for jobs or interviewing? Why or why not?"
Approximately 61% of respondents (39 out of 64) answered "yes," and 5% (5) answered "no." A total of 28% (18) were "uncertain," and 3% (2) didn't answer the question. Seven of the undecideds argued that a portfolio's usefulness would depend on the particular job sought. Three people asserted that most companies are now requiring portfolios from applicants.
Comments regarding the advantages of portfolios included the following:
"Portfolios would save people time, energy, and stress when applying
for jobs."
"Portfolios would be impressive to employers."
Several respondents stated that portfolios would be valuable because of displaying a job candidate's strengths and talents. Style, interests, and preparedness were also cited as qualities that portfolios could capture.
Eleven alumni recommended including writing samples in a portfolio, along with a resume, letters of recommendation, lesson plans, and material from extracurricular projects. One graduate suggested that each portfolio entry needs to be accompanied by a written explanation of why the work was included. According to one person, job applicants should mention a portfolio during an interview or in a cover letter. Four people said that portfolios would be unnecessary because employers would administer on-site writing tests.
The majority of English alumni from the past ten years recommended that seniors create portfolios to strengthen their candidacy for a job. In addition, three respondents commented on the usefulness of portfolios when applying to graduate school.