No one wants to be known as the office slacker. Or the employee that complains and moans about other members of staff. Being professional in the workplace isn’t always easy, especially if you don’t agree with some of the companies policies or role appointments…however if you’re hoping to climb the career ladder and make a name for yourself at your current place of work, then focusing on the way you conduct yourself could go a long way. You want a reputation for excellence, for quality, for hard work and professional conduct.
So, what can you do to achieve this? Read on for 4 ways to be more professional at work.
Increase your attention to detail
Your work says a lot about you. The quality of your work says even more. It shows your work ethic, demonstrates your dedication and gives your employer an insight into future roles that could be suited to you in the business. Be wary of spelling, grammar and the structure of your work. If you’re concerned about any of these things or even plagiarism then check out scribbr.com who’ll be able to proofread your work and give you peace of mind. Always be meticulous, whether you’re sending an email to a colleague or contacting a customer regarding a complaint, always remember the little things too.
Dress for success
Sure you might have a particular pair of trousers that are super comfortable, but do they give the right impression? Old, faded and generally scruffy clothes are a big no-no if you want to look professional and be taken seriously. If you work in an office, you might find that your superiors dress to match their status. Take your lead from them and dress for the job you want. You don’t need to invest in a 3 piece suit, but smart, fresh clothing that is ironed and well presented will always look great and compliment you effortlessly.
Be on time
You know what they say: the early bird catches the worm. Arriving a little earlier than expected every day so you’re ready to begin work when your shift starts is the best way to ensure productivity and to get noticed. If you’re due to start a 9am then don’t turn up bang on 9 or five minutes late, it might not seem a lot to you, but your employer won’t stand for it. When it’s time to go home, don’t start packing away when there’s still 10 minutes to go.
Always be positive
It’s not always easy to stay positive in your job, especially if you’re having a bad day or you’re on the receiving end of some bad feedback. The trick here is to remember where you want to go within the business and focus on that. Turn a negative into a positive by taking on those negative points and using them constructive criticism instead. If you’re being given work that is outside of your remit then don’t complain to anyone who’ll listen, look at it as extra responsibility. You’ll be able to put all this on your CV.
