Possibly a silly question, but is there a difference between sending work samples (e.g., in response to a query) and linking a portfolio? In the past I've always shared the portfolio on my website (which is fairly general), but I've been asked for work samples a few times lately and I'm not sure I'm sending the right thing!

I think they can be the same thing -- an article can be a work sample and be in your portfolio. One tip though is to always send a few of the most relevant samples you can (i.e. if someone is looking for a case study writer, send a few case studies) then link out to your full portfolio. When someone is going through dozens of apps it makes yours stand out as the 'right one'

On the hiring end here! I always ask for writing samples because not everyone has a website, and that makes it clear that i want to see examples of their writing and not just a web presence. if you have writing samples within your folio that would tick the box for me!

Personally I strongly prefer actual samples

Start with this orientation: Make it as easy as possible for someone to see your value and relevance as quickly as possible. It’s just like producing content — do you want to annoy the end user by giving them a bunch of stuff they don’t want? Of course not. How would that serve you?

Thank you all so much, this is so helpful!

Agree with @plain-ability-19865 and @white-potato-56800 here. I typically ask for 2-3 work samples relevant to the subject matter or their best work. If they send me their portfolio, it’s an immediate DQ.