Growing up, my father told me that all you have in this world is your word, and that respect has to be earned! Flash forward twenty years later and behold: his words are just as true now as then! If you are fortunate enough to be passionate about your occupation and you truly love what you do, you will be sought out as a true expert in your field. But, believe it or not, there is more than just knowledge involved here – a business professional must deliver physically as well as psychologically.
In today’s competitive times, we are busy, self-consumed, overworked and sometimes underpaid. And even though our passions may be evident – could we be committing some serious crimes outside of the laws of professionalism? If you are guilty of any of the following five “crimes,” you may be breaking a few laws within your own profession:
1. Character – Are you a creature of moral fiber? It is statistically proven that individuals are hiring professionals of character over qualifications. Those interested in your services want to be sure that you view them as most important. Would you do anything for your client? Stay late, work on weekends or holidays? If you would rather get to a golf outing or to happy hour rather than return a phone call after five o’clock, you may be passed over for your competitor.
2. Attitude – Do you bring a positive disposition to all negative issues that arise on a project? Do you offer solutions rather than complaints? Are you the solution or the problem? You will be amazed at how you will suddenly become the backbone of the project when the client realizes that you are fully invested in his or her happiness. The right attitude opens all the right doors!
3. Collaborative Mindset – Are you willing to work in a team for the greater good of a project, or is putting your ego aside in order to let someone else shine not within your realm of possibility? Can you be told what to do without taking it personally? Individuals who are able to successfully work in tandem – such as architects, interior designers, contractors and engineers are the ones who are building projects for the future. Clients who have to tiptoe around egos and feelings will never produce the “golden referral” for you.
4. Exceeding Expectations – Are you always trying to become more qualified for the job? Is it important to you how you are being viewed by your client? Whether you are organized and attentive, return phone calls and emails promptly, and do what you say you are going to do without being reminded are the things that will be talked about when you are not around (good or bad)! People gladly pay handsomely for “good-old customer service”!
5. Conduct – You know you can handle yourself professionally – that is why you were hired – but does your personal behavior reflect real gratitude, graciousness and humility at having been retained for the project? Or once you get awarded the contract does it all become “your way or the highway”? Do you watch your manners and take pride in the ability to conduct yourself with tact and couth?
Even while trying to be an obedient servant, I have broken many of these laws in the past. But I have endeavored to learn from my mistakes – to become a better businessperson and human being. There is nothing wrong with making mistakes. It is how you recoup from those mistakes that is important!
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