The use of career portfolios as a job-search tool has been gaining traction as more employers are interested in seeing proof of performance -- proof of the accomplishments you showcase on your resume.

A career portfolio (also referred to as a job skills portfolio) is a job-hunting tool that a job-seeker develops to give employers a complete picture of who you are, including samples of your work -- your experience, your education, your accomplishments, your skill sets -- and what you have the potential to become -- much more than just a cover letter and resume can provide.

A career portfolio is typically used in a job interview, often in response to one or more interview questions (such as tell me about yourself, or do you have any samples of your work).

Job-seekers can also create Web-based portfolios, which provides prospective employers even more access to your career brand.

To learn more about this emerging job-search tool, including detailed descriptions of how to develop a career portfolio, go to this section of Quintessential Careers: Career Portfolio Tools and Resources for Job-Seekers.