Are You Professional?

Hello,

Professionalism! I deliberately made this the last principle of service to be discussed because to a great extent, it engulfs the first four we have discussed.

Have you ever wondered why it is so easy for you to tag a person as being unprofessional or cite them as examples but a bit challenging to define who A Professional is?

This post will take a quick look at what professionalism entails in its broad sense.

• Excellent and Updated Knowledge

Being on top your game with your job description, keeping yourself abreast of changes in the products and services offered or within the organization structure and taking it a step further into gathering information about what competitors are doing and current trend in your industry and other relevant ones would definitely set you aside as one who knows his onus.

• Integrity and Responsibility 

These attributes can certainly never be overemphasized. The need to be truthful, follow through on promises, say what you can and will do then do what you. Ensure to take appropriate actions and be willing to take responsibility for its consequences. Ultimately gain a good control of yourself, avoid arguments or disagreement in the public.

• Respect for Yourself, Others and the Organization you Represent.

This includes regard for other people's time (punctuality) resources (assisting to ensure they get value for every penny paid and their personality or opinion (paying attention and listening to their views, requests or issues. Be open to criticism, deal with sensitive and volatile issues privately.
Try to communicate effectively to ensure your message is passed on undistorted and learn that either as a superior or subordinate, certain slangs, words or phrases are not permissible.

• Uphold and Improve on Standards

While industry best practices exist, organizations also have laid down policies/standards and this explicitly states how each tasks is to be carried out as well as the turnaround time. It is expected of a professional to know what obtains in his or her firm and be consistent with the process at all times.

• Selfless Disposition 

A professional will be willing to share knowledge or information with colleagues on the job, open to learn from anyone.

In other words, professionalism demands that you look beyond your immediate needs or gratification but the lasting impact on the organization, your reputation and everyone connected with the decision you are about to make.