Professionalism is Our Daily Life
- Tobin Thomas
- Apr 11, 2024
- 6 min read
I'd like to recount a couple of challenging incidents from my professional life involving junior colleagues.
In the first scenario, a client's feedback read, "I love it; however, I would like some changes in my design... this, this, etc." The designer began to applaud upon reading this. Curious, I inquired about his joyous reaction. He believed the client was fond of his design and agreed with the suggested alterations. Upon reviewing the exchange, I realized the feedback wasn't as positive as he perceived. I explained that the client wasn't entirely satisfied with the design; the message was simply conveyed gently. This interpretation didn't sit well with my junior, who began to dispute my viewpoint.
In the second scenario, a screenshot is attached to an article.
Music holds a significant place in our lives, influencing our emotions and state of mind. In our office, the team enjoys playing a variety of songs in multiple languages. Occasionally, the choice of music shifts, transforming the office atmosphere into something more akin to a club. To address this, I send out polite reminders via Skype, and this is the response I receive from my team member.
These two examples highlight a communication gap, which certainly includes miscommunication. However, there's another element at play here— it's a lack of professionalism that needs to be addressed.
So what is that? Firstly we start with scratch.
What Is Professionalism?
As the saying goes, "Professionalism is not the job you do, it's how you do the job.
Professionalism involves consistently achieving high standards, both visibly and "behind the scenes" – whatever your role or profession. Professionalism is important to both individuals and the companies they work for. Let's take a look at how you can exude professionalism in the workplace.
1. Dress code.
Dress code plays a significant role in professionalism.
To make a good first impression
To communicate that you take your job seriously
To represent your company
To give you confidence
To enhance your credibility
To help you feel part of the team
2. Practice your communication skills.
Watch your tone How you say something can be just as important as what you say. As with other nonverbal cues, your tone can add power and emphasis to your message, or it can undermine it entirely.
Volume and clarity It’s crucial to be clear and audible when you’re speaking. It takes practice to adjust your speaking voice so that you can be heard in a range of situations, but it’s essential for efficient communication. In some situations, speaking excessively loudly can be considered impolite or unpleasant. Vocals and intonation are other parts of verbal communication. This includes your tone, pitch, accent pattern, and the pauses between phrases. Such nuances can help you communicate emotions and give your audience clues about how to perceive your message (whether you realize it or not).
Respect Knowing when to start a conversation and when to answer is a crucial aspect of respect. Allowing others to talk without interruption in a team or group setting is viewed as critical professionalism in communication skills connected with respect.
Use appropriate body language Body language is one of the most important types of communication skills to learn before entering the workforce. Learn to stand tall, which is one of the most effective ways to exude confidence and professionalism in communication. When chatting to others, make sure you don’t cross your arms in front of your chest. It can come out as aloof or as a lack of confidence.
Create a positive organizational culture
3. Table manners and food habits.
Good table manners are not just reserved for formal dining occasions or social gatherings. They can also play an important role in the professional world, making a significant impact on how others perceive you and your professionalism. It may seem surprising, but your behavior at the table can speak volumes about your character, attention to detail, and ability to navigate social situations with ease.
4. Do not mix your family matters with a professional job.
Maintaining a separation between personal and professional life is considered a key aspect of workplace professionalism. Here are a few reasons why it's generally advised not to bring family matters into the professional job setting:
• Focus and Productivity: Personal issues can distract from work tasks and reduce productivity.
• Professional Image: Keeping personal matters private helps maintain a professional image and ensures that colleagues and clients view you as focused and dedicated to your job.
• Workplace Dynamics: Discussing personal matters can affect the dynamics of the workplace, potentially leading to discomfort or tension among colleagues.
• Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life can help in managing stress and preventing burnout.
It's important to find appropriate support for personal issues outside of work, such as through friends, family, or professional counseling services. If personal matters are affecting job performance, it's advisable to speak with HR or a manager to find a suitable solution that respects both personal needs and professional responsibilities.
5. Makes you respectable.
By showing professional behavior at work, you'll earn more respect from your colleagues. Listening to and respecting others' ideas is a great way to demonstrate this and to be a contributor to your employer's success.
6. Reduces conflict.
A good measure of how professional you are is how approachable you are to other colleagues. Keeping personal drama out of the workplace makes you more professional and more approachable. Having a professional attitude when solving problems can reduce conflict and unnecessary stress.
Here, Most employers, particularly those new to the workforce, may not have encountered true professionalism. This isn't necessarily a reflection on them but rather on societal norms that often blur the lines between personal and professional realms. Consequently, many young professionals seek opportunities abroad where they can appreciate and distinguish between their personal and professional lives. In these places, not only is job security a given, but there's also an emphasis on professionalism in the workplace and a guarantee of fundamental life security.
The majority of organizations offer a standard three-month training period for newcomers, which can extend up to six months based on the individual's capabilities. Many new employees perceive this as an extension of their academic learning. However, the truth is quite different. This phase is a crucial transition from academic life to the professional world. It's a time to understand the company's operations, its market dealings, and client interactions. It's also an opportunity to learn about the company's hierarchy, the nature of their roles, and the responsibilities that come with them. Additionally, it's a period to assimilate professional etiquette, including appropriate dress codes, which vary according to the organization's culture. Unfortunately, many are unaware of these essential professional principles.
This is the advice to employers How to improve your image as a professional?
Improving your professional image involves a combination of factors that contribute to the way you are perceived in the workplace. Here are some key tips to enhance your professional image:
1. Dress Appropriately: Adhere to your workplace's dress code and ensure your attire is clean, well-fitted, and suitable for your role.
2. Effective Communication: Develop clear and concise communication skills, both verbally and in writing. Be respectful and professional in all your interactions.
3. Positive Attitude: Maintain a positive and cooperative attitude. Be solution-oriented and willing to help.
4. Professional Etiquette: Understand and practice proper workplace etiquette, including punctuality, politeness, and respect for others' space and time.
5. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with industry knowledge and be open to learning new skills. This shows commitment to your professional growth
6. Networking: Build and maintain professional relationships within and outside your organization. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations
7. Online Presence: Manage your online presence carefully. Ensure your social media profiles reflect the professional image you want to project
8. Personal Branding: Develop a personal brand that aligns with your career goals and the values of your profession
9. Feedback and Self-Reflection: Seek feedback on your performance and be willing to self-reflect.Use this information to make continuous improvements
10. Work-Life Balance: Strive for a healthy work-life balance. It can improve your overall well-being and the quality of your work.
Remember, creating a professional image is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and adaptation to new roles and environments. For more detailed guidance, consider exploring resources that specialize in career development and professional etiquette.
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