Deborah OConnor July 9, 2013

What exactly is professionalism? We all know we have to have it to be a success, but how is it defined? The dictionary defines it as “professional status, methods, character, or standards”. This implies that one must encompass a variety of attributes. What exactly are these attributes and how does one obtain them?

Specialized knowledge
This can include education, degrees, or life experience. What matters, though, is that these professionals have worked in a serious, thoughtful and sustained way to master the specialized knowledge needed to succeed in their fields; and that they keep this knowledge up-to-date, so that they can continue to deliver the best work possible.

Image
Professionals look the part. They never show up to work sloppily dressed. They are always well groomed, polished, and dressed for the situation. They can always be counted on to look appropriate.

Honesty and Integrity
Professionals exhibit qualities such as honesty and integrity. They keep their word, and they can be trusted implicitly because of this. They never compromise their values, and will do the right thing, even when it means taking a harder road.
If a project or job falls outside their scope of expertise, they’re not afraid to admit this. They immediately ask for help when they need it, and they’re willing to learn from others.

Competency
Professionals get the job done. They’re reliable, and they keep their promises. If circumstances arise that prevent them from delivering on their promises, they manage expectations up front, and they do their best to make the situation right.
Professionals don’t make excuses, but focus on finding solutions.

Accountability
Professionals hold themselves accountable for their thoughts, words, and actions, especially when they’ve made a mistake. This personal accountability is closely tied to honesty and integrity, and it’s a vital element to being professional. They also stay calm under pressure and they honor their commitments. If they cannot keep a promise, they will let their boss, client, or team know as soon as possible.
They don’t make excuses. Instead, they focus on meeting expectations as best you can, and on making the situation right.

Respect
Genuine professionals show respect for the people around them, no matter what their role or situation. They exhibit a high degree of emotional intelligence and consider the emotions and needs of others, and they don’t let a bad day impact how they interact with colleagues or clients. This quote by Barbara Bush says it all. “Never lose sight of the fact that the most important yardstick of your success will be how you treat other people-your family, friends, and coworkers and even strangers you meet along the way.”

Manners
Be kind and polite and use good manners to everyone you come into contact with, no matter what their role is, and no matter how you’re feeling. This might sound unimportant, but it makes a significant impact.

As you can see from these characteristics, professionals are the kind of people that others respect and value. They are a genuine credit to their organizations. This is why it’s so important that we work to earn a professional reputation in the workplace. True professionals are the first to be considered for promotions, they are awarded valuable projects or clients, and they are routinely successful in their careers. Now that you have a clear view of what constitutes professionalism, are you demonstrating these characteristics to the people around you? It’s likely you’re already showing some characteristics, but you may find yourself lacking in others. In order to ensure your own professionalism, focus on improving each of these characteristics.
 

Deborah O’Connor is a social strategist and founder and president of Successful Image LLC with offices in Columbia and Atlanta. She offers training and seminars on image management, workplace etiquette, and social skills necessary to succeed in life professionally and personally. Contact at:  [email protected]        www.successfulimage.biz