As a YOUNG BOSS, I know that maintaining your professionalism is vital to your success. It’s not just about dressing the part, it’s also about your behavior and how you present yourself to others. That being said, professionalism is contextual by nature – it could mean one thing to you and something completely different to others.
Let me share some tips on how to be professional in the workplace.
Appearance and Behavior
First impressions last the longest and your appearance is the first thing that people will notice about you, so it’s important to dress appropriately for work. This doesn’t mean that you have to wear a suit every day, but you should dress in a way that is respectful, professional and contextually appropriate.
Your behavior is just as important. Be polite and respectful to everyone you interact with, including your colleagues, clients, and customers. And always be on time for meetings and appointments, and always follow through on your commitments. Somebody once told me, “If you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late.”
Maintaining Professionalism in Meetings and Communication
When you’re in a meeting, you have to be engaged and attentive. Pay attention to what’s being said, and try your best to not interrupt. If you have something to say, raise your hand and wait to be called on or acknowledged.
Translating your professionalism to your communication is also super important. This means using proper grammar and spelling, while avoiding slang and informal language. Be clear and concise in your writing and speaking, and always proofread your work before sending it out. We’ve all sent an email (or two) that we probably shouldn’t have – take your time, read it twice, write it out, leave your computer and come back to it.
Finding Your Level of Professionalism
Let’s be real, there is no one-size-fits-all definition of professionalism. The level of professionalism that is expected in your workplace can vary drastically depending on your industry, company culture, and position.
It’s important to find your own version of professionalism and to be consistent with it. This means dressing, behaving, and communicating in a way that is respectful and appropriate for your workplace. Don’t forget to be you – professionalism does not mean losing your personality, it means making your personality fit into the workplace.
Concluding Thoughts
It’s obvious that professionalism is important in the workplace, or wherever your work takes place. It can help you build relationships, get ahead in your career, and earn the respect of your colleagues and clients.
If you have any questions or want to chat about your professional experiences, leave a comment or shoot us a message – the YOUNG BOSS community is growing and we want you to be a part of it!
Remember, youth is your power.
