The need to reinforce professionalism in the workplace

WE PREVIOUSLY thought that once young millennials enter the workforce, they would assimilate into the world of business seamlessly.

But with the rise of BPOs and their more informal culture, plus mobile technology and casual fashion, companies are now struggling with maintaining an attitude of professionalism.

We have heard reports of too much time spent chatting with friends on social media or playing Pokemon Go, while long-sleeve shirts paired with sneakers or boat shoes have become prevalent.

We asked Lia Bernardo, resource person of the upcoming “Developing an Attitude of Professionalism in the Workplace” workshop, for her thoughts on this challenge facing companies today.

Why do new employees need to develop professionalism in the workplace? Does this assume they are not inherently professional?

When you represent a company as an employee one needs to understand that how they represent themselves becomes the first and most often lasting impression of the company from the point of view of the customer or client. Further to this, the employee also needs to develop professionalism not only for outside representation but also to ensure standard and accepted behavior within the company. These standard and accepted behaviors are based on the employees values and attitudes and will be reflected in their actions. We are not saying that people are inherently unprofessional, but there is definitely room to develop the values and attitudes of employees towards professionalism in the workplace.

Why should companies invest in making their employees more professional? How does this affect the bottom line?

It is an investment in people. When you invest in soft skills training for your people you invest in personal growth naturally when growth happens this affects productivity and the bottom line. Happy employees create better results.

What are some quick tips or techniques that anyone can do to be more professional?

1. Remember that everything you do and say is a reflection of who you are.
2. Be aware of your co-workers’ spaces, boundaries and feelings.
3. Do not take anything personally.
4. Always over deliver.
5. Honor your word, do what you say you will do.

(The author is Executive Director of Inquirer Academy.)

The workshop on “Developing an Attitude of Professionalism: Values and Skills for Success” will be hosted by
Inquirer Academy on Sept. 14, 2016. This highly interactive program is designed for young professionals or anyone seeking to maximize their unique strengths and potentials and develop the values of professionalism at work.

Lia, the program facilitator, enjoys sharing her knowledge and experiences so that others may grow and learn. She seeks to challenge participants to become confident, professional and motivated individuals. These outcomes are then reflected in their manner of relating to each other, as well as both internal and external customers. She is working toward her PhD in Psychoneurology and Integrative Health from Beurin University in California.

For more information about this or any future programs, you may email [email protected], call 834-1557 and look for Jerald Miguel, or visit the website at www.inquireracademy.com. The Inquirer Academy is at 4168 Don Chino Roces Avenue corner Ponte Street, Makati City.