A portfolio is basically the proof of what you say you've done - and it's increasingly becoming the best way to stand out.

You need to figure out which platforms enable you to showcase the work - and especially the results you've achieved. You can do this on your blog by listing your accomplishments on your About page or other sections, but there are also other pieces of the puzzle that fit into this.

1. Get on the relevant platform(s)

Platforms like LinkedIn, Dribbble, Angel List or GitHub might apply to you specifically as social networks where you'll want to refine and optimize your presence (then point back to your blog).

There are also global portfolio platforms like Carbonmade or Dunked that can also help organize and showcase your experience.

2. Start guest blogging about your expertise

The next step is to expand beyond your own blog and get featured on other sites. You can score these opportunities by providing very specific sites example writing from your blog and outlined ideas about what you can contribute to their blog.

Make sure you've heavily researched them, the type of content they feature, and have even adapted to their writing style. This will make it much harder for them to say no.

Make sure you highlight the fact that you're written for these sites and focus on being helpful and building relationships along the way.

3. Get testimonials and endorsements

Testimonials and endorsements about yourself and your work are invaluable to you. Make sure you always get endorsements for your work and from the people you've helped with your free work projects.

You can get them on LinkedIn or add them to your website. Set up a "Testimonials" area like I've done. This acts as social proof and as a testament about your person to all potential employers and gigs that come your way.

4. Team up with others

There's only so much you can do by yourself. Align yourself with like minded people and team up to create amazing and helpful things.