A “brag book” is also known known as a portfolio, leave-behind, or interview presentation binder. While portfolios are expected in certain “creative” professions, jobseekers in many more “traditional” fields could benefit from preparing a brag book.
Benefits
A brag book tangibly showcases your accomplishments. It documents the breadth and depth of your educational credentials, training, and professional development. It helps communicate greater depth and detail about your qualifications than you can on the résumé alone, and it sets you apart from your competition.
How to Use It
The brag book is primarily designed to be used in the job interview — both to illustrate your qualifications and (possibly) as a leave-behind piece. It shows that you have prepared for the interview.
What To Include
First, consider the responsibilities of the kind of position you are seeking then ask yourself how you can showcase relevant experience in a way that positions you as qualified. Here are just some of the kinds of things you can put in your brag book:
Work-Related Documentation
- Work samples (projects, newsletters, photographs, case studies, proposals, surveys)
- Papers/reports/publications you’ve authored
- Samples of communication/writing skills (writing samples)
Awards and Honors
- If you mentioned an award on the résumé, include a copy of the certificate or photo of the trophy
- Photos of individual or team participation in an event or award
- Scholarships received
Feedback/Testimonials/Endorsements
- Copies of thank you letters you have received, including letters and emails from customers and/or co-workers
- Letters of recommendation from previous supervisors and managers
- LinkedIn Recommendations — select a few, put one on each page, or put together a page of Recommendation excerpts
Education/Training
- A copy of your college or university transcript
- Copies of the certificates or diplomas for trainings/workshops/degrees listed on your résumé
- Documentation of knowledge of a foreign language (certificate, grade, or test result)
Community or Organizational Involvement
- List of professional affiliations, including leadership roles
- Clubs or activities you’re involved with
- Photos of events you helped organize
Other Documentation to Include
- Résumé and/or bio
- LinkedIn summary
- Photo of you delivering a presentation
A brag book is also an excellent confidence booster. There is something magically empowering about seeing all of your accomplishments in one place.
