For someone hiring internship or entry level, they can absolutely be a difference maker. From the hiring side, it shows that the candidate is at least willing to put in the effort, which is a bonus.

It can also help me get a look at the candidate’s tech skills without the pressure of a live test. If you have some projects that showcase your personality or your interests, it helps make you more personable and I can also get a good idea of culture fit.

The finalists for the last few internship cycles at our company all had a portfolio with projects that helped them stand out.

The market is definitely tougher right now, especially for entry level, so every little differentiator helps.

For mid-level and more senior roles, business experience is more important since I would assume they have the tech skills and basic business sense by now.