Preparation may include

• evaluating the kind of portfolio you need and the medium in which to share the portfolio
• a collection of exemplary classroom work, certificates, and awards
• records of participation in school- or community-related activities
• letters of recommendation
• student competency records and results of career exploration activities
• industry credential certificates
• career assessment and related information
• interest inventory
• strengths inventories
• career cluster results that match student’s interests and strengths
• career plan with academic goal that includes support services needed for achievement
• résumé
• a collection of documents for use with online job sites
• a collection of documents for applying to colleges. 

Process/Skill Questions:

• What criteria do employers use to evaluate employment documents? How do employers use an applicant's employment documents to predict success?
• What is the best kind of résumé for a student to use? Why? What problems might a student have in developing a résumé?
• What are the similarities and differences between electronic and paper portfolios, and when should a job applicant use one or the other?
• Whom should you ask to provide letters of recommendation? 
• How should one secure their portfolio and its contents?
• How often should a portfolio be revised?
• Why should you work with your teachers and school counselors on your portfolio?