Soft Skills Say More Than You Know
Does your professionalism shine through? Its presence — or lack of it — is something that people notice right away. Far beyond your academic degrees and the clothing you wear, professionalism involves your entire demeanor, attitude, and work ethic.
Here are seven steps to help you perk up your professionalism.
- Cultivate competence with poise: Lifelong learning is your bag; it sets you apart from the rest of the pack because it deepens your knowledge and shows you care about your job and industry.
- Ratchet up the reliability: If you’re someone people count on, then they notice that you keep your word, never compromise your values, and hold yourself accountable for your thoughts, words, and actions. The job always gets done when you’re around!
- Communicate with confidence: Real pros maintain a positive attitude, write clearly and succinctly, and never dominate conversations. Listening carefully to the other party shows a willingness to learn from every employee, regardless of level.
- Organize with options: You should always be able to find what you need quickly and easily. Your organizational system should work for you, of course, but your physical work area should be neat and organized. For example, your briefcase should contain only items needed for a presentation — not everything that managed to fit before snapping the locks.
- Maintain a positive demeanor: Professionals always control themselves in tense situations and play well with others. They are friendly at all times and earn trust from others by staying informed, not by being the office gossip.
- Prepared for anything: Whether it’s a business lunch or an informal meet-and-greet, you’ve prepped yourself about the people who will be attending and prepared a few questions so you’re never caught without something intelligent to say.
- Dress for success: “Wow, that unwashed hair looks great!” said no one ever. Stay clean and meet or even exceed the requirements of your company’s dress code. People notice a little polish and confidence, and respect it.
When you appear and behave as a professional, you boost your opportunities for ongoing success in any role you take on.
