Professionalism

What professionalism means…….. Professionalism can be defined in many different ways and from many different perspectives. As defined it can said professional is an awareness of the conduct, aims and qualities defining a given profession, familiarity with professional codes of ethics, patient professional interaction, and patient rights Professionalism means being the very best you can be. This set of values is conveyed to everyone around you and your workplace both on and off the job. Additionally, your attitude is also a direct reflection of who you are. Moreover, the way you treat your co-workers is a mirror reflection of your level of professionalism. Another prime example would be what you say about your company, medical program or workplace while away from the site will give other’s a great insight into your professionalism. In reality almost everything you do is a reflection good or bad. There are many aspects to professionalism. It is important to understand that professionalism is verbal and it is nonverbal it can also be physical or non physical. The impact of the first impression speaks volumes of a person and is not easily erased. So it is always important to be your best and project yourself in a positive manner. Within thirty seconds people will from an opinion of who they think you are. A professional must also realize nonverbal cues speak volumes also about who you are. This would include the way you dress your apparel does it fit properly is it too tight, does it match, is it clean and pressed, is it appropriate for the situation' Another area of interest is mannerisms, for example body language. How close do you stand to one another, do you stand confidently or slouching' Eye contact is another big category, do you look at someone when there talking to you, do you pay attention' Facial expressions also are huge do you smile a lot or frown, do you look puzzled or knowledgeable. All these characteristics install confidence in the minds of the person or persons that we are dealing with on a daily basis. Workplace communication is another important aspect or indicator of professionalism. This would include communication on the phones, voice mail, email, written notes, letters and penmanship. It shouldn’t matter if patients or customers are around or not professionalism is twenty four hours a day seven days a week it’s an attitude or mindset that all professionals should strive for. When leaving a voicemail speak loudly, leave a clear and short message and identify yourself also leave your number twice so you’re not misunderstood. Avoid taking cell phone calls when with a co-worker or patient and don’t forget to turn off the cell phone totally when you’re in a meeting. Email messages should be kept short and to the point and replied with the original message in the body of the text. A high level of professionalism will pay off in the long run and you will enjoy an increase in confidence and credibility from co-workers and patients and respect from others. The cost of being unprofessional can be high. In today’s society in the age of computers and detailed records a reputation is not easily overcome so it is important not to get a negative report from anyone. It has also been said the modern world is a very small place because of our high tech communications such as telephone, email etc. Especially in the medical field it can cost you your job, state license or worse yet even your certification. It can be the difference in a raise or even a promotion. So it is important to act in a professional manner at all times. Personally I have had experiences with people who were professional and many people who were not. For example I have been at offices where the person in charge was rude, indifferent and arrogant. I can tell you that reflected poorly in my confidence in his ability to handle any circumstances that arose at place of employment. So it is important to be well rounded individual and not to neglect any aspect of yourself. You could probably say that being professional is as follows; be well organized, groomed, alert and courteous! Professionalism is a requirement of all, young and old alike. If everybody acted in a professional manner at all times it can only have a positive effect on all of the individuals involved in any given situation and on any given day.