Professionalism In Action
When it comes to professionalism, something we’ve been exploring in our ongoing series, you have concerns of hygiene, dress code, and mannerisms. Each in their own way contribute to “the conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize or mark a profession or a professional person.” That image of the resolute professional; however, is never so important than how we address people, whether they are our co-workers or clients.
If you haven’t had a chance to explore the other segments of the professionalism pyramid, please visit them here for hygiene and here for attire. Though each can be read independently, we can assert that the way you take care of and carry yourself will affect how you treat others.
Elements of professionalism
You will quickly learn as you try to act professionally, that the concept is rather abstract. It only becomes more substantive as we give an explanation of the elements we need to achieve.
These elements include:
Competence – When we envision a professional, we establish a minimum level of competence. Doctors, lawyers, and athletes are all required to achieve a level of competence in their chosen field. In fact, many of them also have ongoing standards that need to be met through continuous education.
Accountability – Everyone makes mistakes. How we address those mistakes shows how professional we are. We could for instance, blame our team members for a lack in communication or for outright screwing things up. On the other hand, we could step forward, acknowledging our place in the mistake and make arrangements for the mistake never to happen again.
Reliability – Being reliable requires one to have a firm grasp of time management skills so you will always complete any task that is assigned to you.
Honesty – Dancing around the truth is a game best left to those who don’t wish to achieve a professional status.
Consideration – Understanding how your work and behavior can affect others is important for the professional. It doesn’t stop with the knowledge; however, as you need to act on that information and communicate to others. This could come in the form of letting them know your schedule, explaining whether you’re able to achieve certain goals, or listening to others’ opinions and grievances. It is also highlighted when we recognize others for their contribution to a team effort.
Integrity – When someone espouses good values, they almost always include integrity. When you have solid integrity, you are known for your consistent principles and how well you demonstrate good morals and ethics. This means you will always choose to do what’s right for the customer, even if there is an easier path. Additionally, you will acknowledge any windfall that may be a detriment to others and you will keep the confidence of coworkers.
Pro Tip: Many professional designations include an ethical code of conduct.
Focus on work – Don’t let your personal life interfere with your job. This could include your time management or your emotional state.
Understanding your shortfalls – The true professional doesn’t imply they know something when they don’t. When they don’t possess a skill, they either learn it or acknowledge the shortfall to their teammates so someone else can fill in the gap.
Pro Tip: Remaining positive is a great professional trait.
Have a plan for conflict
Remaining focused, especially during stressful situations is the hallmark of a true professional. We don’t want to have a stressful day to complicate our relationships or erupt into conflicts with a coworker or client. Remaining focused on our job goals is the best way to achieve this.
Here are the steps you should take to address conflict and remain professional.
Step 1 – Openly acknowledge that a difficult situation exists.
Step 2 – Acknowledge other people’s feelings.
Step 3 – Find common areas of agreement.
Step 4 – Assess what needs to be achieved to address the conflict.
Step 5 – Determine the solutions that can solve the underlying needs.
Step 6 – Establish a time-frame for completion of a solution and for follow-up.
Step 7 – Codify the solution for future conflict resolution.
Pro Tip: A professional will accept defeat if it means the greater good is achieved.
Be the professional you want to be
Acting as the best possible you in every situation is the most important path to follow. Make your decisions based on the good you can achieve. Then, when you act in a professional manner, you will induce others to follow your lead.
What’s your professional code look like?