BE A PROFESSIONAL - STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD

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 thought-provoking 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!

PAYAL C