Our society does not emphasize the importance of professionalism, so people tend to believe that amateur work is normal (not).
Being a professional in your field means much more than wearing a tie or possessing a college degree and a noted title. Professionalism has to do with how you conduct yourself. As a professional, you will be counted on finding a way to get the job done. Responding to people promptly and following through on promises in a timely manner, as this demonstrates reliability. YES BE RELIABLE & ACTION YOUR PROMISES!
Working in an unprofessional workplace can be frustrating, but before blaming the environment and workplace ask yourself “Are you Professional?” “Professionalism” consists of certain attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors sometimes known as “good character.” Attitudes and behaviors have two things in common. Both are produced by our beliefs. Remember that we have the power to choose our attitudes and behaviors.
- A professional learns every aspect of the job. An amateur skips the learning process whenever possible.
- A professional carefully discovers what is needed and wanted. An amateur assumes what others need and want.
- A professional looks, speaks and dresses like a professional. An amateur is sloppy in appearance and speech.
- A professional keeps his or her work area clean and orderly. An amateur has a messy, confused or dirty work area.
- A professional is focused and clear-headed. An amateur is confused and distracted.
- A professional does not let mistakes slide by. An amateur ignores or hides mistakes.
- A professional jumps into difficult assignments. An amateur tries to get out of difficult work.
- A professional completes projects as soon as possible. An amateur procrastinate.
- A professional remains level-headed and optimistic. An amateur gets upset and assumes the worst.
- A professional faces up to other people’s upsets and problems. An amateur avoids others’ problems.
- A professional persists until the objective is achieved. An amateur gives up at the first opportunity.
- A professional produces more than expected. An amateur produces just enough to get by.
- A professional produces a high-quality product or service. An amateur produces a medium-to-low quality product or service.
- A professional has a promising future. An amateur has an uncertain future.
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The first step to making yourself a professional is to decide you ARE a professional. Anything you do, do it as a Professional to Professional standards.
“So learn this as a first lesson about life. The only successful beings in any field, including living itself, are those who have a professional viewpoint and make themselves and ARE professionals” — L. Ron Hubbard
I am a person who cares a lot about professionalism and I know that there are many others who care too. It’s time to stop being amazed at timidity, lack of respect, and other unprofessional attitudes in today’s culture and do something about it! I believe that actions speak louder than words, and I am known for being a doer, therefore, doing nothing more than becoming a living example of professionalism may be all that is needed now and I plan to stand out and be it. What about you?