Professionalism 101

By Matt Krumrie, Star Tribune Sales and Marketing

Last update: September 8, 2005 - 11:00 PM

Dana Pigford of Professionalism Matters, Inc. (www.professionalismmatters.com), defines professionalism as "the manner of conducting and executing tasks with the highest commitment to effective and efficient execution, personal integrity, and respect for all parties involved."

Unfortunately, in today's workplace, professionalism seems to have taken a backseat.

"I don't know if today's work force has forgotten about it as much as many of us were never taught," says Pigford, whose company provides training and consulting services, in the areas of workplace professionalism, team development, project management, communication and leadership.

The workplace, Pigford says, has become an amalgamation of workers with varying personalities, work styles, habits, skills, interests, and management preferences faced with the daily chore of figuring out how to work together toward a common goal. In some ways, it's a wonder that organizations get anything accomplished, she says.

Pigford says professionalism is as simple as remembering the small things, like a person's birthday, saying "please" and "thank you" in an e-mail request, and other niceties that help build relationships and establish you as someone who works well with others.

It means returning phone calls and e-mails promptly. Even if you don't know the answer, "I will look into it and get back to you by the close of business Friday" is a very appropriate response.

"Think about when you're sitting on the jet way wondering why your plane hasn't taken off. Don't you just wish the pilot would get on the horn and tell you something?" says Pigford.

Why does professionalism matter? Because it's about the impression you leave with everyone you interact with. If everyone else is operating at professionalism level 5, and you're at level 10, you will stand out and everyone will want to work with you. Think about it: How often do people tell you they'll do something – such as e-mailing you a picture or calling to set up lunch – and not do it?

"It's so commonplace that we're often shocked when someone does follow up as they said they would," says Pigford. "These are the people who stand out."

Matt Krumrie is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights, MN, and has seven years of experience reporting on the employment industry. The first Sunday of each month this column will answer readers' questions. E-mail questions or subject ideas to askmatt@startribune.com.

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