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Professionalism: (i) the conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize or mark a profession or a professional person; (2) the following of a profession (as athletics) for gain or livelihood. (Merriam-Webster Online).
Professionalism in the workplace is expected, but what is it? What do you think professionalism is? What about the staff and colleagues you work with: How would they answer this question? Do we assume that everyone knows what the code of conduct is, or do we believe it is self-evident ? We hear all too often of our leaders' (not to mention our politicians') ignoring the principles and expectations of character associated with their professions.
Teachers and administrators may invest years in their careers only to have a moment of indiscretion undermine all they have gained. Whether you are just starting out in the field of education or have been in it for years, it is important to be reminded often of what the rules of engagement are. Remember: It only takes a bit of carelessness to start a forest fire. Our behavior, our speech, and our attitude can act as matches to ignite situations we later may regret; it may take years to rebuild our credibility.
This article focuses on how we act and how we treat people. In essence, we are talking about professional etiquette, which can be described as "conforming to the standards of skill, competence, or character normally expected of a properly qualified and experienced person in a work environment" (Merriam-Webster Online).
So what is our role? As leaders and part of the community, we need to keep an ever-watchful eye out for smoldering situations or those which may give rise to negative attitudes. When we say a potential problem is "not our problem" - perhaps a student is upset with a faculty member - or we respond by saying, "Oh, that doesn't surprise me," we fuel the problem. Ignoring a problem only fans the flames; ultimately, the fire is likely to extend to politically sensitive areas of the institution. What am I saying? Only you can prevent forest fires!
FORCEFUL: Being overly forceful sends potential friends and allies running. Although we may not say it, people sense it. "My idea is the right one! I will raise my voice...