etiquette/ethics of using work you did at a company in your freelance portfolio?

Discussion in 'HTML & Website Design' started by wolfestone, Jan 23, 2010.

  1. #1
    I'm revamping my personal portfolio site, and plan to gear it a little more towards freelance work. Currently, it's just a small showcase of work I've done with no mention of hiring me for projects. It's also going to serve as a learning tool for improving SEO skills.

    I haven't touched it in around two years now, as I've been kept busy with a full time job at a web design firm. I have only touched a couple of minor freelance projects in that time period.

    My question really boils down to whether it's considered acceptable to show designs I've been responsible for at work in my personal portfolio. They're also shown in the company portfolio.

    I would make full mention of the fact they weren't freelance projects, and be completely honest about my role/involvement (most commonly 100% of the design).

    Is there a generally accepted consensus on this?

    Thanks for any advice.
     
    wolfestone, Jan 23, 2010 IP
  2. kk5st

    kk5st Prominent Member

    Messages:
    3,497
    Likes Received:
    376
    Best Answers:
    29
    Trophy Points:
    335
    #2
    Showing work you've done in your personal web space, whether on your own hook, or for your employer is no more unethical than keeping your cv. up to date, assuming the work is otherwise visible to the world. The question I'd raise is the rightness of soliciting work in competition with your employer. Eh? Or, have you left them?

    cheers,

    gary
     
    kk5st, Jan 24, 2010 IP
  3. MmmDesign

    MmmDesign Peon

    Messages:
    185
    Likes Received:
    5
    Best Answers:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    0
    #3
    If you give full credit to the fact that you did the work while employed at the company than I don't see it being a huge issue, I've seen it in countless portfolios across the web.

    However, why not just ask your (past?) employer what their policy is on the issue and avoid any potential headaches down the road?
     
    MmmDesign, Jan 25, 2010 IP