Job Portfolio: What do I include?

I've looked online; I've asked friends and family. I've consulted with some employees/volunteers at the work-force center, and yet I have not been able to get a solid answer for my question: What do I include in my portfolio and how many peices do I show?

I am a writer, and I'm investigating positions in the local media in town. I'm not sure what core peices to include. Do I put forth just essays and articles? Maybe I should add a few poems, a couple chapters, or short stories? And how many works do I include?

And other than my own work, what else do I include? Do I include a resume, references, a cover letter (or, along the same lines, an introduction), an "about the author" section, letters of reccommendation, or something else that could be note-worthy?

I'm just slightly confused on the subject. Any help would be much appreciated.

I'd include anything that has been published . . . letters to the editor, newspaper clippings (high school, college, or whatever you might have), magazine articles, and website copy (other than Facebook, *grin*)

Papers or essays that you are especially proud of (especially if you haven't been published much and they fit the style of the writing you hope to do). I wouldn't go too heavy here. Editors do not enjoy reading ten-page missives on The Scarlett Letter. Most local media doesn't publish poetry or short stories—I'd skip those (unless they have been published).

Possibly a sample article in the style that you would want to write in the job you are applying for. A current subject would be best. If you want to be a sports writer, for example, I'd include a sample piece on a recent game. Some publications will assign you a sample article to see your take on things and your ability to turn things on a deadline.

A brief resume that can fit onto one page. Highlight any professional writing (paid or volunteer), writing/editing experience, and advanced coursework that can establish you as a trusted writer.

A cover letter stating what position you are applying for and what makes you a good candidate for that position.

If your portfolio is a little weak in some areas (nothing published to date), you could include letters of reference as well.

No, I didn't come up with all of this on my own. I asked a professional editor.

I think it is important to insert some of your writing pieces. As Eric mentioned earlier, you should include anything that has been published. Also, the reference letters are important to strengthen your portfolio.

Certainly, it is good to have a cover letter to show your interests about the company and the job posted. Because most of the interviewer doesn't have time to read the whole portfolio, unleast they are interested to hire you. This will definitely help you landing an interview and even a job.

Thanks for the replies. This helps quite a bit. :)

I would have to agree with what others have offered here. Include anything that you have published, no matter how large or small the publication. This will give the prospective employer an idea of where your talents lie and what assignments they want you to handle. Good luck!

Mady,
Though I'm a novice in these business. I personally would like to put some good comments you might had received for your publication or accomplishment you had received for your story or article.

I hope this help.

Eric already mentioned this, but it bears repeating: a sample article tailored to the place you are applying would really strengthen your portfolio. After all, if you can prove that you can write what the company needs you to write in your portfolio, then that gives the company a great reason to hire you.