How Do You Define Yourself Professionally?

You can say a professional has many attributes, but what are they? Can you name a few and do you have the qualities that demonstrate them? Perhaps I can list a few for you and then decide if you fit into them.

1. Communication - A true professional can and does communicate with peers and their team with focus. When you think before you talk, you have taken the step that will surely define you as respectful and a good listener. When you have your teams ear and can explain exactly what you mean, the hope is that your communication skills are finely tuned, concise and come from your wisdom and expertise. When you communicate well, you empower others to make good decisions.
2. Customers - Your customers vary from the one who works with you, and for you. Let me explain. Customers come first in any organization and if you do not believe that you need your cohorts to believe in your product, then your are on a slippery slide. When you put the customer first, you can be reassured of a successful business. When you satisfy the needs of those you work with, you definitely rise to the top of the satisfaction scale.
3. Expertise - You measure expertise by experience, and that needs some explanation. Experience is not about the length of time in one position, but it is about your accumulated knowledge over time. Do you have the knowledge necessary to do your job and do you perform to the very best of your abilities? If you cannot respond affirmatively, what are you doing in your position? Experience demands that you always increase your knowledge.
4. Expectations - Professionals have little time off because they are expected to do their job no matter how long it takes. To qualify that statement, a professional has the responsibility to balance work and home whenever possible. To be an obsessive compulsive individual serves only to be so driven that nothing else matters except "the job". If you are living this life, look in the mirror and ask yourself if you want to be that person.
5. Model - Attributes of a professional means also that you may need some repair in your attitude, your performance, your knowledge, and you need to admit to your shortcomings. When you strive ethically, morally and humbly to be your best, no matter what, chances are you are on the right path. Transparency is not just a word but gives you the freedom to honestly be yourself.
6. Empower - Finally, empower yourself and be proud of your professional self. We all need to take stock of how we see ourselves and how others see us.

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Gloria M. Reiske is an MSW, LCSW with more than thirty years experience in education, administration, social work, and coaching. She has authored many articles and is published in local media, having written a men and grief manual for training purposes throughout Virginia and an article for children and grief.
gloriareiske@blogspot.com
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