What is professionalism?
There is a lot of talk about professional behavior. Most people can actively recognize professionalism or the lack of it in others, but find it extremely difficult to define or model it when considering their own behavior.
So let’s rule out what exactly we mean by professionalism.
Think about the people you respect the most because they are consummate professionals. Can you identify the elements that made them so good?
I have asked so many groups of people this question and the answers include the following:
A good role model for others, including their behavior, attitudes and relationships.
Good Time Keepers: always in advance, use the time well
Dress appropriately for the role.
Speak in a way that is appropriate for different audiences, without making people condescending or small.
Knowledge of work, organization, etc.
Good with people
Communicate effectively no matter the circumstances — listen actively
Manage your time well
Works well under pressure
Meet deadlines
Effectively prioritize — You are willing to put in the time and effort to get things done, but also achieve a reasonable work-life balance.
It is responsible and takes responsibility for what they do and say, and what they leave undone.
Dig deeper into the subject of professionalism and you will begin to realize that professionalism encompasses all the above aspects, but also much more.
Those who are fully professional show full personality. They can be a good role model for their colleagues. They have the ability to take the hard with the soft and are always consistent with others regardless of their circumstances or personal issues. They never take their frustrations out on others.
The experienced professional behaves appropriately in all situations:
They know when it’s appropriate to laugh over coffee and when to behave formally. They can meet effectively. They know well when to talk and when to bite their tongues. They don’t feel the need to be seen as always right or as a defense of their dignity. They are willing to play long term and wait for time and experience to prove their point. They do not shy away from problems, but prefer to approach them without aggression or anger. You can always say with your hand on your heart, “I expect high standards from my team and I show the same high standards at all times.”
The perfect professional shows generosity of spirit, no need for their own ego to be central, they allow credit where it is deserved.
The professional is open to the opinions of others and to the possibility that there is a better way. They make decisions in the interest of the organization. They are honest and are even given to all people, even those they don’t really like. The professional evaluates his own performance, has high expectations of himself and others and continuously strives for improvement.
Professionals see themselves as part of the solution rather than the problem.
If you are interested in being successful in a business, you must demonstrate the right level of professionalism. If you want a promotion in the future, show that you have the potential to fill that role. Just wanting the job, title, status and financial reward is not enough.
Show your involvement, your ability to find the products, others will notice and it will be very useful whether you are looking for an internal promotion or if you need a reference for an external promotion.
You will also get great personal satisfaction from knowing you have what it takes to be a great professional.
