It goes without saying that job
seekers ought to present a professional image to potential employers. While a majority of people agree that’s the
case, there is a variety of opinion as to what a professional image is.
Professionalism is generally judged subjectively. Most people would agree on what makes a “professional” Doctor, however, many have a range of ideas on what makes a “professional” mechanic.
Professionalism is not simply whether someone wears a nice suit, rather it’s a
number of traits that combine to form a professional image.Professionalism is generally judged subjectively. Most people would agree on what makes a “professional” Doctor, however, many have a range of ideas on what makes a “professional” mechanic.
How does a potential employer judge whether someone is professional or not? Here are some common indicators…
1.
Attitude: Attitude creates a positive impression. However, it’s
also a critical component of professionalism. It’s not just whether someone is
upbeat or not, but also whether they are a solution-finder or nay-sayer. A
professional is someone that sees opportunity, not someone that just finds reasons
that something can’t be done.
2.
Competence: Competence in your
field is also vital. In order to be professional, you have to know what you’re
talking about. You have to be able to have understanding and insight into
relevant issues in your field and be able to articulate solutions.
3.
Communication Skills. You may have a great attitude and
be highly competent in your field, however, if you can’t communicate your
insight or ideas effectively to others, you miss the mark. Communication skills
don’t refer to an accent, but rather the ability to be understood, speak in
clear terms, and make complex subjects understandable.
4.
Appearance. Appearance does matter. It’s not
necessary for someone to wear a 50k suit. However, clean and appropriate
clothing, fit properly, and arranged well do play a part in a professional
image. A mechanic in well fitting and well cared for cover-all can create a
professional image Dirty, wrinkled, sloppy, and unkempt appearance damages a
professional image regardless of the field you may pursue.
5.
Appropriateness. Inappropriate language, slang,
appearance, or subjects have as much to do with damaging a professional image
as anything else. Running off on unrelated tangents in a conversation, cursing,
or wearing casuals to a formal interview each create an impression that you
don’t grasp the particular role. Like it or not, but ‘bucking the system’
rarely gets rewarded when pursuing a new job.
Are you professional?
Take a critical look at yourself through an employers’ lens and decide whether you hit the mark, or need to re-aim!
Take a critical look at yourself through an employers’ lens and decide whether you hit the mark, or need to re-aim!
