An overview of professionalism: because working hard and being "good" at your job isn't necessarily enough!

Respect your Commitments

I can totally respect an individual who choses to let go of commitments professionally, but I have no time for people who continuously underperform due to habitual laziness. Although it may be a tough discussion to have, it is far more professional to open a discussion than to let your institution- what ever it may be- down by not contributing. These actions not only make you look horrible, but they also disrespect every contributing member of the group. To put it simply, your group simply has no time for your disrespectful under-performance.

Dress for Success

As much as people would like to think otherwise, we are absolutely judged on the way we look. Dressing appropriately is perhaps the easiest and most effective way to present yourself as a professional individual. It is important to know what exactly professional dress looks like.Professional dress It is not slovenly, it is not revealing, it is not casual. It is also not the time to waste time arguing over dress codes. These codes are developed to maintain a level of professionalism, of which is not found in booty shorts nor tube tops. It is amazing what the choice of dress can do in high pressure situations such as interviews. Just as you wouldn’t wear ratty jeans to church, you wouldn’t wear unprofessional clothes to an interview. It is important to also know that professional dress does not have to mean expensive. You can do quite a bit with a little money if you know where to go. Try toremember that clothing is literally an investment in your future. Although your laurels should stand on their own, take the time to look the part.

Choose your Words Carefully

One's lexicon literally says so much about a person. A person's rhetoric can portray them almost as eloquently as their word choice. Avoid profanity and clichés. By simply avoiding gauche phrases, one can establish themselves as a well versed individual. Employers want to know that their employees can be self sufficient and be able to make well thought out decisions. Using proper syntax is one way in which to show professionalism.

Keep Personal Disputes Private

Everyone has been in an uncomfortable group situation where personal grievances are aired; this is unprofessional behavior. Everyone knows that humans are very emotional creatures, and as such, conflicts happen frequently. It is perhaps best practice to resolve personal conflicts in a one on one setting. Doing so allows you to clear the air while maintaining decorum. If you are ever in doubt, as yourself: "Is this a group problem, or a me problem?" .

Avoid Complaining

As the old saying goes, misery loves company. It is very easy to fall into this trap, as it feels good when others share your discontent. It is also important to realize that complaining does nothing to solve the problem. On the contrary, complaining simply elevates emotions and raises tension between people. Try to avoid over complaining in group settings.

Go with the Flow

Life happens. Everybody knows that nothing ever really goes as planned, so it is up to you to becomeresourceful with the options you are given. Flexability truly goes a long way.