Professional Behavior In The Workplace

Whether starting a new job or your own company, acting professional will ensure your success.

Professional behaviour is not only beneficial for people employed in the corporate world or an office. Professional behaviour can be learnt and relates to the way you conduct yourself, your speech, the way you present yourself. Good workplace ethics are critical to get ahead in your chosen career.

Let's face it, people who look and act professional look successful and inspire confidence.

Unprofessional Behaviour
Telephone etiquette - a "hiya" when answering the phone, vs "Good Morning, XXX speaking, how can I help you".
Dress Code - Dirty T-shirt with offensive slogan vs appropriate, conservative uniform/attire.
Spelling - Mistakes on emails, abbreviations,

Extended lunch or teatimes will make others resent you, after all, you are delaying their breaks – this animosity occurs because you are not seen as a team player. Speaking slang or discussing controversial subjects and you may be seen as a troublemaker, not serious about your position or uneducated. Not taking the time to study and research what it is that your company does, shows that you are not really interested and using them as a stepping stone. It takes little time and effort to research what the company does, which will be noticed. While some say respect is earned that is not entirely true, acting professional means treating everyone you may encounter with a certain amount of respect, which will be reciprocated. It is very difficult to argue with someone who is being polite. You need to be able to handle conflict situations with a certain finesse and grace, not scream and shout and exacerbate the situation. With mass immigration occurring it may be necessary to obtain voice coaching to lessen your accent. I do not mean that you should forget your home language however you need to be understood and be able to give/receive clear, concise instructions. The ability to communicate well cannot be underestimated, especially when there are people relying on the information you provide. Modern technology has made

If necessary, sign up for voice coaching.
Consult on whether your dress code is appropriate, (you could also approach seniors in the organisation for input).
Watch videos showing correct telephone etiquette to refine your skills.
Keep issues/problems at home out of the workplace, no-one really wants to hear about your dog jumping the fence again.
Research the business you are involved in, know the products, trends and well as your competitors.
Practice good speech with friends and family (to eliminate the slang habit).
Be punctual and if you are going to be unavoidably late, let everyone know.
Respect should be shown to all colleagues (irrespective of their position in the company), customers and suppliers, this will show a level of maturity and be appreciated.
Put in extra time while maintaining a good work/life balance, don’t watch the clock and if an extra ten minutes is required to finish a task – do it.
Ask your superior for feedback, more often than not they will only be too happy to help you grow and better yourself.
If you have spare time, offer to assist others, it shows an interest and that you are a valuable member of the