What is Professionalism?

James R. Ball, CEO of The Goals Institute, identifies five keys which distinguish professionals. DRA attributes much of its success in serving Southeastern Virginia on these principles for our staff and our candidates.

Based on Ball’s book, Professionalism is for Everyone, you can evaluate your own professionalism on Character, Attitude, Excellence, Competency, and Conduct. The book summarizes these five keys:

1. Character is who you are and what you stand for. Professionals choose to be professional. They have integrity and they are responsible, diligent, and ethical. They do what is right and project a professional image.
2. Attitude is your mental outlook. Professionals have a professional approach and a positive, serving mentality. They seek responsibility and are determined. Professionals are team players.
3. Excellence is your commitment to quality. Professionals press for excellence and continuous improvement. They are attentive and follow instructions.
4. Competency is your degree of expertise. Professionals understand their jobs and develop their skills. They produce results, perform effectively, and communicate skillfully.
5. Conduct is how you deal with others. Professionals are mature, polite, and loyal. They respect authority and maintain confidences. Professionals do everything with style and class.

A few good tips from Ball’s book:

Do…
Make the commitment to continually grow.
Take pride in yourself and your work.
Deliver on time.
Get as much done as possible in the allotted time.
Put passion into your work.

Don’t...
Settle for mediocrity.
Blame others or seek excuses.
Forget to practice skills.
Turn in work that is incomplete or inferior.