Professionalism

NACE ICON
Career Readiness Competency - Professionalism 

Knowing work environments differ greatly, understand and demonstrate effective work habits, and act in the interest of the larger community and workplace.

SAMPLE BEHAVIORS

  • Act equitably with integrity and accountability to self, others, and the organization.
  • Maintain a positive personal brand in alignment with organization and personal career values.
  • Be present and prepared.
  • Demonstrate dependability (e.g., report consistently for work or meetings).
  • Prioritize and complete tasks to accomplish organizational goals.
  • Consistently meet or exceed goals and expectations.
  • Have an attention to detail, resulting in few if any errors in their work.
  • Show a high level of dedication toward doing a good job.
Engage in activities to develop your Professionalism
  • Attend Career Services Workshops
  • Attend a Conference
  • Participate Student Clubs
  • Goal Setting
  • Create ePortfolios & Website
  • Public Lectures & Performances
  • Practicum & Observations
  • Internship or Micro-Internship
  • Professional Memberships

Examples of how to develop and practice professionalism:

  1. Be productive: Use your time productively at work.  Focus on your job responsibilities and avoid getting pulled into social media, web browsing and phone activity while on the clock.

  2. Develop a professional image: Project a professional presence and dress appropriately for your industry and organization.  A good rule of thumb is to dress in the position you aspire to have

  3. Take the initiative: Ask for more projects to be given to you or think of assignments that will meet your organization's goals.  You don’t want to be under-utilized.

  4. Maintain effective work habits: Prioritize, plan and manage your assignments and projects.  Follow up and follow through with your supervisor and team members.
  5. Manage your time efficiently: Establish priorities, set goals and create action plans to meet deadlines.

  6. Demonstrate integrity: Be accountable for your work and actions while behaving ethically at all times.
  7. Provide excellence: Produce work and results that reflect a sense of pride and professionalism, often exceeding expectations.

  8. Be a problem-solver: When you run into problems and obstacles take the time to brainstorm a few solutions and alternatives before you meet with your supervisor.
  9. Be resilient: Develop coping skills to manage setbacks and challenges with a positive and constructive attitude.

  10. Communicate effectively: Practice professional on-line, in person and interpersonal communication skills.
  11. Develop self-awareness: Learn to manage your emotions and gain awareness of your emotional triggers so you can manage your reactions positively and productively.  Accept and reflect on feedback to assist as you learn and grow.

  12. Build relationships: Network with colleagues, customers and clients to build professional cordial relationships, work on teams and collaborate effectively.