Professionalism in the Workplace

1. Professionalism
By Tammy Holcomb & Danieliza Juniis-Johnson
EDU 511
Dr. Dietzel
2014

2. What is Professionalism?
• “The conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize or mark a
professional person.”
-Webster Dictionary

3. Characteristics of a Professional
• Honest
• Skilled
• Courteous
• Reliable
• Considerate
• Dependable
• Cooperative
• Committed

4. Unprofessional Behavior
• Arguing in front of customers, clients, and families
• Insults, verbal comments, or criticism intended to belittle or berate
others
• Verbal outbursts
• Conduct that can be considered harassment or discrimination
• Verbal threats of violence, retribution, or lawsuits
• Physical actions or threats towards others

5. How People Judge Your
Professionalism
• Your Attitude
• Your Demeanor
• Your Communication
• Your Image
• Your Competence
• Your Appearance
• Your Behavior

6. Attitude & Demeanor
• Smile!
• Stand tall
• Make eye contact
• Greet others with a firm handshake
• Be enthusiastic

7. Communication & Image
• Communication:
 Handle disagreements with diplomacy
 Speak face to face with people
 Respect cultural differences
 Give good feedback
 Listen
• Image
• Appearance
• Sharpen social skills
• Positive attitude
• Do not point fingers or be irresponsible

8. Competence, Appearance, Behavior
• Competence
 Use problem solving to help solve a problem
 Remember what people tell you when they help you
 Be serious about mistakes made
• Appearance
 Dress to Impress
 Follow dress code for the company/business you work for
• Behavior
 Be kind
 Polite
 Considerate