If you're a creative, freelancer, or builder of any kind, you probably already know you need some sort of portfolio. But what you might not know is that a few small missteps — often the kind that sneak in quietly — could be turning people off before they even get to your work.

Here are some of the most common portfolio red flags I see (and have made myself, to be honest). Nothing here is meant to call you out — just offering a few nudges to help you get your digital house in order.

1. Too Many Tabs, Not Enough Clarity

When your site has 6+ pages labeled things like “Work,” “Studio,” “Process,” “Archive,” and “Play,” most people don’t know where to go. They click around, get lost, and bounce.

A one-page site with a clear flow can often do a better job than something sprawling. It’s faster to make, easier to manage, and more likely to get read.

2. Vague Introductions

“Hi, I’m Jamie. I design stuff.” ← okay, but what kind of stuff? For who? Why does it matter?

A single line like:
“I help indie businesses tell their story through visual design.”
…tells us way more and opens the door to real connection.

3. No Clear Next Step

A portfolio without a call to action is like a conversation with no ending. Visitors need a nudge:

• Want them to view more work?

• Book a call?

• Grab a free resource?

Tell them what’s next.

4. Neglecting Mobile

Lots of folks still design for desktop first — but the reality is, many (if not most) visitors will find you on their phone. Take five minutes to scroll your site on mobile: Are buttons tappable? Is the text readable? Does it feel smooth?

5. Outdated or Broken Links

Old email addresses, dead social links, or abandoned projects don’t just clutter — they quietly signal you’re not paying attention. A quick cleanup can make a big difference.

6. Zero Personality

Even the cleanest layout can feel cold if there’s no trace of you.
You don’t need to write your life story, but a short note on why you care, a favorite tool, a color palette that feels like you — these things make a portfolio feel human and memorable.

Not Sure Where to Start?

If this all feels overwhelming, I made a free Carrd template called Elevate Design. It’s a simple, one-page personal site that gives your work a clean home — no design rabbit holes, no decision fatigue.

It’s free for all members (even the free tier), and built to help you move forward fast without sacrificing quality.

🔗 Check it out here

Getting your portfolio right doesn’t mean cramming everything in — it’s about showing up clearly, with intention.

Start small. Clean it up. Make it feel like you.