PROFESSIONALISM can be defined as the strict adherence to courtesy, honesty and responsibility when dealing with individuals or other companies in a business environment and conduct at work. This trait often includes a high level of excellence going above and beyond basic requirements.
Professionalism does not mean wearing a suit or carrying a briefcase. It means conducting oneself with responsibility, integrity, accountability, and excellence. It also means communicating effectively and appropriately and always finding ways to be productive. Professionals strive to become experts in their field, which sets them apart from the rest of the pack.
Part of understanding professionalism is figuring out how each of our individual actions impacts the actions and work of others. Professionalism and the work ethic demonstrated by individuals in the business world may be built around an internal moral system or code of ethics. The word "ethics" comes from a Greek term meaning "duty", thus a code of ethics consists of all the obligations that professionals must respect when carrying out their duties. It includes the core values of the profession and the behavior which should be adopted. Thus, a code of professional conduct.
Core values are the fundamental beliefs of a person or organization. The guiding principles dictate behavior and can help people understand the difference between right and wrong. Core values also helps companies determine if they are on the right path in fulfilling their goals by creating a guide.
Work ethic is usually concerned with the personal values demonstrated by Business Owners or Entrepreneurs and instilled in the company’s employees. The good work ethic may include completing tasks in a timely manner with the highest quality possible and taking pride in completed tasks. Work ethic is defined as a belief in the moral benefit and importance of work and its ability to strengthen character. Work ethic is a value based on hard work and diligence.
Morality and Ethics usually represent the personal beliefs individuals display when working in business. Common traits often include honesty and integrity.
You may wonder if anyone will notice if an employee does not demonstrate professional behavior at work. "As long as you do your job well, who cares, right?" It turns out the boss, customers, and co-workers notice. The lack of professional behavior could have consequences on a career, and to discount this trait could be a big mistake. It can affect chances for advancement or even keep the job.
Do and Do Not -
~ Make it a priority to be on time. When one is late for work or meetings, it gives the boss and co-workers the impression one does not care. It affects them and it is like saying their time is not valued. Pay attention to the clock. Show up before the start time.
~ Do not bring your problems to work. Don't be a grump. Leave the bad mood at the door. Everyone has days they are not feeling their best. Complaining is counter-productive to getting work done. If your work is the thing that is causing the bad moods, it may be time to look for another job.
~ Dress appropriately. Regardless of how you are to dress for work, appearance should always be neat and clean. Choose the type of clothing the employer requires. If there is not a dress code, pick attire that is the norm for work. Save the flip-flops, shorts, and tank tops for the weekends, along with clothes that are better suited for a night out at a club.
~ Watch your mouth. Swearing, cursing, or cussing has no place in most workplaces. Unless it is positively okay where you work, don't. Others present may be offended. That is not professionalism.
~ Offer assistance to your colleagues. A true Professional is willing to help co-workers when they are overburdened or facing a challenge at work. Don't be afraid of offering an extra pair of hands or some creativity. One person's success reflects well on everyone in the workplace. It is important, however, not to be too pushy when offering assistance. If your colleague rejects your offer, don't push it. They may prefer working alone.
~ Do not gossip. Gossiping makes you look like a middle school student. While you may be tempted to tell a co-worker what you know about somebody down the hall, don't. If you simply must share, tell someone who has absolutely nothing to do with the workplace.
~ Try to stay positive. Negativity is contagious and it brings people down. The boss will not appreciate a drop in morale in his employees. If it is seen that something should be fixed, give the boss the feedback along with a plan for how to make improvements. If you are complaining for no reason, stop.
~ Do not hide from your own mistakes, as hard as it may be to do. Make sure you don't make the same mistakes twice. Never blame others for your errors, even if they deserve it. Bite your tongue. Set an example so that those who share responsibility for the mistake can step forward and admit their part.
~ Always fight fair. There will inevitably be occasional disagreements with co-workers or even the boss. You may think something should be done one way while someone else will believe another way is better. Don't let yourself get angry. It does not matter how upset you are or how strongly you believe you are right, screaming in the workplace is not allowed, nor is name calling or door slamming. Calmly explain your opinion and be ready to walk away if you cannot sway the other person or if he begins to lose control. Always avoid physical contact.
~ Do not lie. Dishonesty always makes one look bad, whether it is lying on your resume or calling in sick when you aren't. A Professional is always upfront. If you are unqualified for a job, you have two choices - 1. Do not apply for the job at all or,
2. Submit a resume that reflects your real skills.
~ Do not air your dirty laundry. Confiding in a close friend at work is usually okay, but sharing too much information is not. Be judicious of whom you talk to, especially when discussing family problems. If you decide to share personal information with co-workers, do not do it where customers and clients may overhear.
1. "Ethics" comes from the Greek word _________________.
(duty)
2. What does "bite your tongue" mean? _________________________________
When a person wants to say something that may be offensive or hurtful to someone, so instead says nothing. It is the opposite of "speaking your mind".
3. When working with others, how do you think your individual actions could impact the action and work of others? ____________________________________________
4. How do you conduct yourself as a professional? ________________________
5. What is your definition of "professionalism"? __________________________
Learn the art of professionalism. It isn't hard to do and the return on investment is great. Learn, practice, and apply. Learn to reach your maximum potential.
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