Speaking of Professionalism

Graduation time is upon us, and soon many college grads will be starting new jobs.  This is a time of transition for young adults, coming from a lifestyle consisting of studying, attending lectures, cramming, hanging out with same-age friends and, yes, partying.  Compare that to a life of structured 8-to-5 commitments, interacting with coworkers of different ages, learning a whole new environment and way of being.  Even getting to bed before midnight takes adjustment.

One complaint I hear often from hiring managers is that employees now entering the workforce lack professionalism.  So what does that mean, what constitutes professionalism? My definition includes three distinct aspects 1) business etiquette, 2) work ethic and 3) taking ownership of your career.  Over the next weeks, I’ll be covering dos and don’ts of each aspect, targeted to those starting their first job, –but of course they’re applicable to anyone.

Let’s start with business etiquette.  Here are some basics:

• Arrive on time or earlier.  If you were late for a class lecture it may not have mattered.  Not so at work.  Stick to the observed lunch time and breaks.
• Good manners are your friend.  Greet others with “good morning”.  Say “please” and “thank you”.  Never act entitled.  Don’t be overly casual or familiar when you communicate.
• Learn business email formalities, it’s nothing like texting. Include a greeting, complete sentences and a closing. Response emails can be more casual.
• Resist the urge to check your cell phone or social media while working, you’ll appear distracted and unfocused.  Learn what’s allowed.  Most companies frown on personal use.
• Be a good listener, and observer before offering your input.  Don’t be overly confident too soon.
• Be considerate and courteous with co-workers, and respect their privacy.  Avoid intrusive questions (personal, sexual, medical) that may be acceptable among your friends but may be off-putting to other age groups.   Same goes for sharing too much about yourself.
• Dress modestly and tastefully; attire should never distract from your work performance.

Those are my suggestions, readers please send yours.  Want more tips?  Tune in next week for how to develop a successful work ethic.

 © Copyright Eva Del Rio