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What does it mean to be professional in the workplace?

What is it really to be professional in the workplace?
I take cosmetology class and we were given a presentation on how to be professional in the workplace but I feel as if it missed something so what is it really mean to be professional in the workplace?

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Maureen’s Answer

Being a professional in the workplace includes a variety of things: 1. Being competent at what you do for the employer and being willing to learn what you do not already know so that you can perform more roles and responsibilities for your employer; 2) having a strong work ethic in which you value employment and earning a living for yourself at one of the most important things you will do in your life, next to family; 3) having good work habits, including dressing professionally in the work place in business casual attire at a minimum - forget clothing that is too casual or revealing. Save casual or revealing attire for going out in the evenings with friends or on the week Also, personal habits such as gossiping, smoking, gum chewing, wearing heavy cologne, etc. can work against you in the workplace. My basic rule of thumb is to dress and act as if I am about to be promoted to the next level, by dressing and conducting myself professionally at all times.
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Quynh’s Answer

Hello Faith!

Embodying professionalism involves embracing accountability and responsibility in your role. Remember, treating your coworkers with respect is a key aspect of a positive workplace attitude!

Best of luck! :)
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Priya’s Answer

conducting oneself with responsibility, integrity, accountability, and excellence
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Briuana’s Answer

Hi Faith! Growing up I felt as if most advice given to me on being professional in the workplace concerned outer appearance. However, I have learned that being professional means a few different things.

1. Always put your best effort forward. Some days your best might be 100%, and others might be 60%--but that's okay! Every day won't be perfect.

2. Communicate effectively and often. In the early stages of my career, I compromised on things that were important to me by not speaking up about what I truly wanted.

3. Treat others how you want to be treated. In the workplace, teamwork is almost always required. Therefore, your reputation and how you treat others are critical to your success and the success of your team.

4. Always be willing to learn. Treat every experience as a learning opportunity. If you feel as if you're not learning/growing where you are, it might be time to make some changes.

Hope this helps!
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Emmanuel’s Answer

What is it really to be professional in the workplace?
Being professional in a workplace tends to depend on one's enthusiasm and love for such profession.
Coming to work early, making sure your tasks are done and cooling on the managers desk, putting on the work required clothes and also dedication.
Like an adage says: 'If you love something, you live for it.'
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Cindy’s Answer

In a professional workplace, it's essential to treat each other with respect, refraining from making judgments based on appearances. Embrace inclusivity, communicate in a professional manner, and strive to be a valuable member of the team. These actions will not only foster a positive environment but also encourage everyone to do their best.
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Mitch’s Answer

Dear Faith,

It seems we've gathered a wealth of insightful responses here.

I'd like to contribute a crucial point: your demeanor at work mirrors your true self in life.

Excellence in your profession stems from authenticity. Strive to be a good human and let your genuine self shine through in your work.
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Anthony’s Answer

Hello,
Please, note the following, concerning being a professional in the workplace/business :-
1. The person must know his/her "left and right" in the business.
2. High level of competency.
3. Faithfulness, Integrity and Honesty, exhibited at all times in the business
4. Must have a good knowledge about the business.

Best regards.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Faith,

The essence of professionalism encompasses a variety of attributes. These include presenting oneself in a well-tailored suit and tie, complemented by an education that aligns with your career. A subtle, pleasant aftershave can also contribute to a positive first impression. It's beneficial to drive a contemporary, well-maintained sedan, which conveys a sense of reliability and style.

Punctuality is key - always aim to arrive early. Equipping yourself with high-end technology, such as a modern smartphone and laptop, can demonstrate your commitment to staying current and efficient. A quality briefcase and an elegant pen can further enhance your professional image.

Communication skills are crucial. Strive to articulate your thoughts clearly, using advanced English vocabulary. When responding to queries, aim for concise, direct, and prompt replies. Display your academic accomplishments proudly on your office wall, as they reflect your dedication and expertise.

Maintain a pleasant demeanor - a warm smile, patience, and friendliness can go a long way. If your speech is interrupted, courteously encourage the speaker to continue. Avoid flaunting your wealth, such as flashing a wallet full of hundred-dollar bills, until a level of familiarity is established. I hope these tips provide a clear picture of what professionalism entails!

Always Here to Help,
James.
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Judith-Ann’s Answer

Faith, I see you have now entered into your training for the career you desire. You are taking the next step! It is very important to be professional in your career! The cosmetology profession has a very diverse field of personalities, and it is a wonderful arena of diversity and inclusiveness.
It seems to me an important part of professionalism is to be totally educated with all the diversity you will encounter. If your moral code allows you to judge and discriminate against anyone, you might want to consider finding a place in your industry that doesn't challenge your belief system.
The other part of professionalism is that you have an intrinsic desire to treat people respectfully. When a client enters into your cosmetology arena, they are at a vulnerable place. They are asking for help to feel better about themselves physically. Tread lightly with the landscape of their ego. Be kind, be true, be smart. Have a great life, Faith!
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April’s Answer

Professionalism means treating your colleagues with respect. It involves making decisions that benefit not just you, but also others and the organization. It's about expressing differing viewpoints in a manner that is neither harsh nor dismissive of others.
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Daryl’s Answer

Maintaining professionalism in the workplace can encompass various aspects and may vary based on the nature of your job. In a more casual work environment, the definition of professionalism might be less stringent. Let's begin with physical appearances. It's crucial to dress appropriately and maintain good personal hygiene to suit your work environment. Bear in mind that the initial impression you make tends to be enduring. Avoid engaging in office gossip, refrain from wasting time, ensure punctuality, and promptly follow up with clients, colleagues, or management. It's essential to always represent your company positively, whether you're at work or elsewhere.
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Katherine’s Answer

One of the main things that I always worked to do and was 99% successful at as a business owner/professional (or as a student, family member, community member etc.) is make and keep appointments. So many people seem unable to do this, and it's so simple and goes such a long way toward either keeping the world running smoothly and people being seen as professional, or else being seen as "unprofessional" and making people decide they aren't interested in trying to interact with you anymore in the future.

And specifically in terms of being a cosmetologist, a few years ago I was looking for a new place to become a regular customer for my hair and stuff, as I had had trouble finding a place where I felt like I could get reliable results; and I got connected somehow to a woman very near my house who was advertising openings for a long-term relationship as, say, my go-to person for hair and all that stuff. She had good reviews from several people, but it was a problem at first getting an appointment set up. Then when I went looking for the salon the day of the appointment it was hard to find and when I finally had to call the place and ask for directions for the last bit of travel, the stylist was sulky. When I arrived she wasn't at the salon and I had to wait, and then when she came, I could tell that just by chance, the shirt I was wearing and how I had put my hair up to drive over made her decide based on one look at me that I was a person she looked down on; and worse than the fact that I could tell how she felt, was that once she felt that way, she actually made a point of being slow at her work and being rude about the things she said or how she wouldn't really make conversation, and didn't actually care the slightest bit about how she made me look. I think she also somehow expected me to be rude or treat her badly, and after a while when I wasn't, she kind of calmed down, but she was surprised that I also gave her a compliment and didn't try all that hard to make conversation since I could tell she wasn't in the mood for it (plus that's not actually my style at a salon usually anyway). By the time I left she was actually trying to be more polite and talking about my coming back, but by then I honestly felt like I would never be able to come back to her and truly feel like she liked me enough to care about the job she did or make me feel comfortable at the salon. She could have just done a couple simple things like smile, be on time and ready to work, act like I was someone who deserved respect, etc., and I would have been happy to come back for months or years; but she had ruined the first impression she gave me and I never went back.

So that's what being professional means--treat people like they are humans instead of dirt; be ready to serve people and help them with what they need instead of acting like you don't really want their business or their money.
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Charles’s Answer

Being professional at work means taking responsibility and accountability, showing respect, and being conscious of how you present yourself in your surroundings. The way you communicate and engage with others carries significant weight. In a service-oriented setting, first impressions matter a lot, so it's crucial to treat everyone with fairness. By setting appropriate expectations and being open to listening and learning, you not only treat everyone equally but also foster a positive work environment. Remember, your professionalism can inspire others and make a difference. Keep going!
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Susie’s Answer

Be brave and embrace your individuality. Make friends and build relationships with those around you by always being receptive to new ideas. Step up, take responsibility, be there for your team, and let your passion shine through.
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Alex’s Answer

What is it really to be professional in the workplace?

Honestly, you are right sometimes this feels vague and feel different based on the cultural norms of the company you go to work for one day. At the end of the day it depends on your co-workers, management, and clients.

In the finance industry it might be that professional means wearing a suit and dress shoes (or some type of formal wear). In the legal industry it might be following a rigorous and structured way of asking questions and speaking to clients. In the technology industry professionalism could be simply getting your work done (often times with less emphasis on how one is dressed).

I think it's most important to align with your boss and/or speak to your clients about how they expect a professional in your position to show up. From there, you can determine the best way to achieve the standards they have for you. You got this!
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Larisa’s Answer

Hi Faith,

For me, to be professional means to be responsible, accountable, respectful and always have in mind ones needs. Apart from this, the way you conduct yourself is important, the way you speak and interact with the others.
Since you mentioned you are taking cosmetology classes, in this field for me, to be professional means to be nice with the client, offer support, speak clear and do not provide false expectations. Treat everybody equally regardless of their aspect, social status, etc. I personally return to the service provider who was nicest to me, who explained everything in details, who was kind and empathic.
As a cosmetologist, you will interact with lots of people and personalities, so being able to manage all the scenarios that might appear in a proper manner is also describing a professional environment ( eg: how you speak to angry customers, how you relate to them, how you solve their issues, etc.)
What I always have in mind when I work with somebody is: how would I want to be treated in such a situation? Then I will conduct myself in the same manner with the person I am interacting.

Hope this helps, and wish you lots of luck!
Larisa
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Roberto’s Answer

- keep your word given to others
- trust
- always recognize the contribution of colleagues
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