Be a professional – stand out

ANY ARTICLE about the dos and don’ts of the
corporate world stresses the need for professionalism.
Managers scream ‘you are unprofessional’
over the slightest act of negligence. But,
most people are silent about what professionalism is
really all about.
Why does professionalism matter?
Professionalism is essential for carving out successful
career. It’s the only way one can survive in today’s
competitive world. In fact, professionalism has become
the unofficial standard for differentiating true
potential from a crowd of ‘wannabes and me-toos’.
If you portray yourself as professional, not only will
people take you seriously, but it will win you important
assignments and promotions too. Thereby it will
give you the edge, which can skyrocket your career
and win you a seat at the top table.
What is professionalism?
This is a tough volley, as the concept is subjective
and abstract. But, contrary to popular belief qualifications,
skills or experience do not determine professionalism
nor do donning power suits, toting
laptops or lunching with the CEO! Steve Gregg, a
retired human resources director, agrees, ‘It takes a
lot more than compensation or qualifications to make
someone a professional, no matter what kind of job
they have. It doesn’t matter if you make a million
dollars a year and have a corner office. Professionalism
is about a lot more than this. In fact, there are
many highly trained, highly paid workers who are
considered anything but professional, for lots of different
reasons.’
Simply doing a job over and over again does not
make one a professional. Professionalism is more of a
state of mind, a matter of perception. It reflects in the
way you present yourself and everything you say or
do. It is predominantly an attitude towards work – not
the job you do, but how you do the job!
Where does professionalism stem from?
Professionalism is a lifelong commitment and can
be learnt over a period of time. Hence, it is important
to maintain the highest standards, not the minimum
requirements. Here’s what will make you a true professional:
Professional temperament
● Appearance and attire do matter. Dress well.
● Exercise etiquette, courtesy in communications.
Explain things clearly and listen to others patiently.
● Project an air of enthusiasm, cheerfulness, humility
and friendliness
● Be level-headed and optimistic. Uphold honour and
personal integrity.
● Treat others with respect and expect the same from
them.
● Make yourself worthy of others’ trust.
Professional work attitude
● Though task-specific competence does not define
professionalism, relevant experience, knowledge, capability
and understanding are imperatives.
● Cover all bases conscientiously - learn every aspect
of the job and carefully discover what the job demands.
● Avoid shortcuts. Put in your best efforts to deliver
high-quality work. As far as possible give more than
expected. Truly said, ‘Professionalism is giving your
job your best effort, even on the days when you don’t
feel like it’.
● Aim for excellence; not mediocrity. Avoid
procrastination
and be open to complicated assignments.
● Be a confident, focussed and credible employee who
makes things happen.
● Make sound decisions based on careful analysis, not
mere whims.
● Do not shy away from personal responsibility for
the outcome of your decisions or actions. Learn from
your mistakes and avoid repeating them.
● Be altruistic and work in the best interests of the
company and clients.
Professional spirit
● Respect for hierarchy and honesty is the forte of a
professional.
● Live up to your commitments and demonstrate loyalty
and dedication.
● Show compassion and help co-workers whenever
needed.
● Be a team player who willingly co-operates and
collaborates with others.
● Try to lead at whatever level you are and teach by
example.
● Do not only do your job, express a willingness to
learn.
● Have an eye on the future and creatively innovate
for better practices.
Professionalism is an amalgam of these thoughtprovoking
and proactive behaviours. In short, it
means simply doing what is right. After all, only if you
behave like a professional, will you be treated like one!