Why Your Portfolio Site Isn’t Getting Noticed (And How to Fix It)

So, you built your portfolio. It’s live. You even added a dark mode toggle.

But the traffic? Crickets.

No recruiter messages. No freelance DMs. Just vibes.

Let’s talk about why your dev portfolio might be getting ignored — and how you can flip the script and make it actually work for you.


1. Your Projects Aren’t Solving Real Problems

Let’s be honest: if your main project is a to-do list app… you’re not standing out.

Everyone builds one. It’s the “Hello, World!” of portfolios.

Instead, ask yourself:

  • Who am I building this for?

  • What problem does this solve?

  • Could someone actually use this?

✅ Tip: Build niche tools or clone real-world platforms. Solve local problems in your community. Show initiative.


2. There’s No Clear Call to Action

When someone lands on your portfolio, do they know what you want?

If you’re hoping to:

  • Get hired → Say “I’m looking for front-end roles”

  • Get freelance clients → Add a “Hire Me” button

  • Get feedback → Say “I’d love your thoughts on this”

✅ Tip: Guide the visitor. Make your goals obvious. Add buttons, links, or CTAs where needed.


3. Your “About Me” Section Is All Buzzwords

“Passionate developer with a keen eye for detail” — sounds like everyone else.

People want to know you, not your buzzwords.

✅ Tip: Share your journey. How did you get into tech? What do you enjoy building? What’s your mission?

Make it memorable. Make it human.


4. You’re Not Showing Proof of Work

Cool screenshots aren’t enough. Where’s the code? Where’s the demo?

✅ Tip:

  • Add live links to your projects

  • Link to the GitHub repo

  • Embed a short walkthrough or Loom video

Let people see the work behind the visuals.


5. Your Site Looks Bad on Mobile

Most devs forget to test their site on mobile. That’s a huge mistake.

✅ Tip:

  • Use Chrome DevTools to simulate small screens

  • Resize your browser manually

  • Prioritize readability and tap-friendly buttons

Mobile-first is not optional anymore.


6. You Skipped SEO and Metadata

Your site can be stunning, but if it doesn’t show up in Google? It’s invisible.

✅ Tip:

  • Add SEO titles and descriptions

  • Use alt text for images

  • Add meta tags and OG tags for sharing

Make your portfolio search-friendly.


7. You’re Not Sharing It Enough

Your site won’t go viral on its own. You have to promote it.

✅ Tip:

  • Share it on dev Twitter, LinkedIn, Reddit

  • Join tech Discord servers

  • Ask for feedback from peers

The more eyes, the better.


8. Your Site Lacks Vibe

A portfolio is more than just a resume — it’s a vibe check.

People want to feel your personality. Your energy. Your style.

✅ Tip:

  • Choose a color scheme that reflects you

  • Add a quirky section (fun facts, what you’re learning, fav books, etc.)

  • Write how you speak — not like a robot


Final Thoughts

Your portfolio doesn’t need to be perfect. It needs to be you.

Make it purposeful. Make it useful. Make it real.

People hire people — not portfolios.


Want more tips like this? I’m building a dev blog for self-taught coders, beginners, and dreamers like you. Let’s grow together 💫

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Written by

Juweria abdikarim
Juweria abdikarim