The Real Metrics of an Online Football Portfolio

In today’s issue of Football Progression Path I’m going to talk about what makes a successful online portfolio.

There are many things that make an online portfolio successful, but it all depends on your goals and aspirations.

When most people start an online portfolio, they seem to think that the goal is to get likes, engagement and followers. But this isn't optimal.

The success of your online portfolio is not defined by your number of followers.

Here are three different approaches to measuring your portfolio’s success:

1. Connections made
2. Messages from people in the football industry
3. Feedback on your work

Connections made

The beauty of an online portfolio is that the network comes to you.

When you deliver consistent value, about a specific niche, you make yourself open to people who are interested in that topic. People start to look at you as a source of knowledge, and expertise. When you make more connections, you'll meet interesting and likeminded people who can aid your development

Remember though, it’s about the quality of your connections, not the quantity.

Messages with people in the football industry

In a similar vein to the network coming to you, people in the football industry will also come to you.

For this to happen, it is important that you’re focusing on a targeted niche. It’s unlikely that the head of recruitment at Manchester United will see your work and get in contact. However, it’s more probable that the head of recruitment at a League Two side might reach out to you if you produce work on them. My advice is always to focus your portfolio away from the top 5 major leagues.

If your goal is to work in football, then having direct contact with people in the game is a great way to see if your portfolio is successful.

Feedback on your work

By connecting with like-minded individuals and professionals, you build a trusted network to learn from and rely on.

The aim of any online portfolio is to showcase your skills, but it can be more than that. It can act as a timeline of your development as your learn a new skill. It might be coding, data visualisation, writing scout reports or creating videos.

Whatever work it is, look to utilise the great network your building and get feedback on your work. The feedback then allows you to develop further. That’s why it’s a great way to measure your online portfolio success.

Thanks for taking the time to read this week’s newsletter. It’s a real pleasure to have the opportunity to share my thoughts with you.

Hope to catch you again soon.

Liam