Published :
Updated :
For all latest news, follow The Financial Express Google News channel.
The boss appreciated her employee for attending the meeting on time at 11 am, but the employee who came to the office at 11 needed to learn about the meeting. He was just late. This real-life scenario was posted on social media with a template of the TV series 'The Office' where the boss is seen appreciating his employee for a job he didn't do. The whole hilarious meme thing, from that habit of getting late at the workplace to sharing memes on social media, to some level, represents our personality.
Good or bad, that is another debate; however, in the world of professionals, our habits, dress codes, body language, communication, and even social media activities create a picture of us that people might not take 'seriously' or may not consider professional enough.
Many fresh graduates or collegegoers often need help to build their professional picture. They often tensed about how to act professionally or what professionalism is. Is it to share serious stuff on social media only? Or you must always dress a piece of it to get attention.
Dressing: Dressing is not always a part of one's personality. Especially when it comes to the workplace or any formal setting, most workplaces will have a dress code, either written or implied. If you are a job seeker, observe the culture there and apply it during the initial workdays to gauge the level of formality.
Since it mostly remains hot and humid in our country, three-piece suits and boots are not always a kit for a professional outlook. A light-coloured full-sleeved shirt will do the job for a meeting with a senior fellow or professional.
First impression is important: First impression is very important to get the attention that you are a professional. In the Bangladeshi context, one can start by focusing on details of the person he or she is talking with. Maybe a nice watch, perfume, and a clean outfit will do the job.
Punctuality is key: In Bangladesh, especially in the capital, traffic is a big issue. To reach a destination on time, being punctual is a big deal. It signifies your respect for colleagues and employers. It means you value other's time as well as yours.
So, by practising that virtue, others will take your time seriously and will value your efforts towards them, which is exactly what professional people do.
'Actions speak louder than voice', the famous saying, is applicable in this context. Say, for example, respecting one's allotted break times. Taking a full lunch break, or relaxation break if you require. That is how people will learn about you and treat you accordingly. If you are fresher and your workplace has designated breaks, stick to that schedule.
Seeking knowledge and staying focused is one of the important traits of a professional mindset. It's okay not to know everything initially if you are a newcomer. If you need help, ask a colleague or supervisor discreetly. This shows a willingness to learn and grow at the same time how professional you are.
Professional image on social media: Managing social media accounts and maintaining a friendly yet professional attitude is not harmful if not helpful. That doesn't mean one should modify their personality and opinion for others' perceptions. However, trying to constructively represent a real personality is not bad either.
Sharing personal details is okay occasionally, but avoid oversharing because it will save time and make you focused on things that matter.
In our country, sometimes our workplaces don't provide the environment what they should do. So, freshers or even seasoned employees tend to outburst their frustration on social media.
In that case, constructive criticism is the gateway if the employee doesn't get responses from HR or the manager. Not everything is sharable on Facebook, for the scenario mentioned above or anything related to professional life, LinkedIn is the perfect platform for you.
Communication is the solution: Communication is key to building strong working relationships and making yourself a professional. Better communication brings better results. So, in this process, you must listen to what your colleagues or the person you are conversing with is important. Active listening shows you value their input, and fostering open communication allows everyone to contribute.
Body language is very important whether in conversation, walking or sitting in a public gathering. A stable posture can say how confident you are. No one likes a loose shoulder. If you want to lead, learn to improve your body language. Be it talking with someone, or movements of hands, both in a tough and relaxed situation.
Arguments will happen in life, but no matter what happens, treat everyone with courtesy, even during disagreements. Take responsibility for your mistakes and be honest about your work. Owning up to errors allows you to learn and improve, and honesty is key to building trust with both colleagues and clients. While confidence is important, focus on doing your best work; success will come without putting others down.
Stay updated: Keeping up-to-date with industry trends and job fields and developing skills accordingly is a part of professionalism. Take advantage of continuing education opportunities, training courses, or workshops. Sharing them on social media might help. Staying current with the latest advancements in your field makes you a valuable asset.
Overdoing or forcefully doing anything might not help anyone in acting professionally. However, knowing one's strengths and weaknesses is very important because a simple change might bring huge results.