by Monique Wooley
As we are approaching graduation season, I want to share these thoughts. When your measuring success, be sure to factor in professionalism.
I instruct local students in the areas of business preparedness which includes resume writing, interview readiness and clinical skills. Just as I raised my own successful children, I often teach the importance of professionalism. Basic skills such as sitting up straight, early preparation, eye to eye contact, direct speaking, confidence and of course showing up on time.
Two of the most important topics in professionalism are The Dress Code and Attitude.
I was raised and mentored on the pretenses that “People take you more seriously when you dress for success”. I certainly understand that in today’s world, dress codes has been made to be more lack-luster in the name of convenience. But certainly if mediocrity isn’t tolerated in performance well then it should never be tolerated in how you show up to perform. Only you can set the bar for you.
The Dress Code
We all understand that education is key. However, how you present yourself definitely plays an essential part in landing and keeping any professional roll especially in a high standard environment. We can all be trained to fulfill rolls but dressing appropriately and having the right attitude is an indication of how you view yourself which leads to how others view you in that roll. How you present yourself can also potentially create conditions for upward mobility as well as promote your image and respect.
Now when I say “dressing appropriately” I’m in no way speaking in terms of name brands or even new but at the very least wrinkle free, spot free, tucked, belted, zipped, buttoned and clean.
My Grandmother would say “it’s not what you ware but how you ware it that matters”.
The Attitude
Complaining about the roll in which you accepted is not a issue of supervision. It is an issue of your choosing. I encourage my clients and students to take the time to discover what brings them joy so that it isn’t a job but a passion. Your passion will always lead you to broader opportunities. If you see something that can be changed within a roll, shift that roll by becoming a agent of change, not the liability of complain.
The brilliant Maya Angelo is often quoted in many American graduation ceremonies in which she states, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel”.
Professional etiquette should compel you to greet peers and colleagues whether coming or going in any professional setting. The beauty of a welcoming gesture such as a distant wave, a quick hug, a firm hand shake or just an acknowledgment can build connections and affirm your sincerity. You never know, one day you may see the same people coming down as you saw going up so be mindful to treat others with dignity and respect. Personal issues should never be brought into professional environments.
Always remember, a simple smile will never harm anyone but can certainly brighten a day, maybe even your own.
Success is unmeasurable without professionalism.
