Professionalism in the Workplace

     As a professional in the workforce, professionalism is essential. Although most companies and organizations do not specify every minute detail of how an employee should act, unspoken rules are understood that will not only increase your credibility in the eyes of fellow employees but also in those of your superiors. Though all of these "rules of professionalism" are important, the two that I find most important are being on time and taking ownership of errors.
     First, punctuality is a necessary habit in all aspects of one's life, but it is especially necessary in the workplace. Being on time shows others that you consider the job and responsibilities you have to be worth while and important. Although it may seen like a small aspect of a job, punctuality does not go unnoticed, and it shows a great deal of professionalism (Palazzolo, 2012).
     Second, taking responsibility for mistakes and errors shows employers that you are accountable for your actions and will not attempt to blame problems on others. Others may see making mistakes as a weakness, but everyone inevitably makes mistakes. The more honorable action is to accept the mistake and do all that you can to correct it, as opposed to attempting to shirk from responsibility (McKay 2014).
     These aspects of work life may seem petty or unnecessary. Some may even argue that employers rarely notice these characteristics in their employees. However, these things are noticed. Not only are you able to strengthen the trust and relationships between co-workers, but you are also seen as more professional by those above you in the workplace. Professionalism is a quality that often cannot be taught but can easily be developed into a habit that will benefit both the employee and the company as a whole.

References 

McKay, D.R. (2014). Professionalism: How to conduct yourself at work. Retrieved from 

     http://careerplanning.about.com/od/workplacesurvival/a/professionalism.htm

Palazzolo, P. (2012, December 27). Tips for professionalism in the workplace part 1. Retrieved from

     http://leadchangegroup.com/tips-for-professionalism-in-the-workplace-part-ii/

There is an "I" in Team

     When many people hear that they will be working on a team or group project, they get frustrated. Often, team assignments are thought of as annoying and more work than the assigned project is worth. In many cases, though, the reason that group projects are not thought of very highly is because they are not effective. In order for teams to be highly successful, each team member as an individual should have clear responsibilities, and the team must have a strong leader.
     First, each member of the team must understand and have clearly set guidelines for his or her contribution to the project (Heathfield 2014). Without the individuals of the team understanding their purpose, the team as a whole will crumble. Often the addage, "there is no "I" in team" is shown in teamwork efforts. However, in order to be able to come together as a team, each individual must understand his or her part.
     Second, a strong and organized leader should be in charge of the team. A strong leader is necessary for making adequate profess and making sure requirements and deadlines are met (Llopis 2012). Understanding a leader's help and influence in managing the group members can be ideal for completing a project.
     Overall, in order for teams to be most effective, an understanding of assignments on an individual level should be demonstrated, as well as a strong and organized leader who can manage each person and his or her contribution to the project. The key to successful teams is structure and a desire from all team members to get the job done well and on time.

References

Heathfield, S. (2014). 12 tips for team building: how to build successful work teams. Retrieved from 

          http://humanresources.about.com/od/involvementteams/a/twelve_tip_team.htm

Llopis, G. (2012, January 1). 6 ways successful teams are built to last. Forbes Magazine. Retrieved from

          http://www.forbes.com/sites/glennllopis/2012/10/01/6-ways-successful-teams-are-built-to-last