So here's the deal: I've been in the industry for 8 years now—and I still feel my best work is my spec work. Is there a point at which it's simply no longer appropriate to show spec work in a book?

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It demonstrates thinking so it’s still good, but half the battle in more senior roles is to protect the creative and making sure it’s executed well - and spec work simply doesn’t show that. My two cents.

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Acd book full of spec probably not good

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What’s your goal? If it’s to show your creativity, keep the spec. Maybe you’ll get a job at a lower title but that gives you better creative opportunities.

If your goal is to climb the ladder (prove that you’re a good manager/leader), then cut the spec and show what you can accomplish when given a client brief and all the limitations that come with it.

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I think when you’re senior level it’s time to stop showing spec, what’s the ratio?

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You have to be careful as it shows your inability to sell your work if it out numbers the real work. Or it highlights an inability to solve brand problems well out of your comfort zone even if it’s a difficult client.

It could also be an indication you need to find a better place to work to do produce better ideas.

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You shouldn't be showing spec after mid level I thought?

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Additional Posts in Portfolio Review

What do you think is the best site to make your book on as a copywriter?

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I’d love to hear your thoughts on my book! Will some creatives be willing to review my work? Thanks🙏

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Can you put spec work in your book?

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Anyone have experience setting up more in-depth analytics for portfolio websites? Any ways to get more information about who is looking at my book? I'm on squarespace. Cheers!

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We create 3 campaigns before XMas and maybe in 2023 we'll start dream big!
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How often is everyone updating their portfolio? Should I be updating mine every few months or would be okay to go longer?

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