Definition Of Professionalism

For some individuals, being professional might mean dressing in a lively manner at work or doing a decent profession (Mind Tools, 2015). For others, being professional means having advanced degrees or other diplomas, framed and hung on the office wall (Mind Tools, 2015). Professionalism includes all of these descriptions (Mind Tools, 2015). But, it also covers much more (Mind Tools, 2015).

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines professionalism as “the conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize or mark a profession or a professional person” (Merriam-Webster, 2015), and it defines a profession as “a calling requiring specialized knowledge and often long and intensive academic preparation” (Merriam-Webster, 2015). These descriptions suggest

Professionals are known for their specialized knowledge (Mind Tools, 2015). They have made a profound personal commitment to improve and develop their skills, and, where applicable, they have the degrees and diplomas that serve as the basis of this knowledge (Mind Tools, 2015). Not all corporate areas have a constant fundamental of knowledge and the academic qualifications that go with this (Mind Tools, 2015); not all areas mandate a broad knowledge to practice effectively (Mind Tools, 2015); and not all professionals have top degrees in their field (Mind Tools, 2015). What is important, though, is that these professionals have worked in a serious, mindful and continuous way to master the specialized knowledge needed to be successful in their fields and that they keep this knowledge up-to-date so that they can continue to bring the best work possible (Mind Tools, 2015). The second attribute is competency (Mind Tools, 2015). Professionals get the work complete (Mind Tools, 2015). They are trustworthy and they keep their commitments (Mind Tools, 2015). If problems arise that prevent them from bringing on their commitments, they manage anticipations up front and they do their best to make the situation right (Mind Tools, 2015). Professionals don't make excuses but focus on looking for solutions (Mind Tools, 2015). The third attribute is honesty and integrity (Mind Tools, 2015). Professionals display an assets