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.
How does a potential employer judge whether someone is professional or not? Here are some common indicators…
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!
