Professionalism Decoded: How to Be Professional at Work and During Your Job Search

If you’re seeking a job or have recently started one, you’ve probably heard that professionalism matters. You’ve also probably been told that you need to do your best to be professional both during the job search and when you finally get your job. But what does it mean to be professional at work? What is professionalism, anyway? 

It’s essential to know what it means to show professionalism at work and during your job search. Because if you truly want the job you’re about to apply for, you need to show it. 

What Is Professionalism? 

What does professionalism mean to you? Professionalism can mean different things to different people, especially across different industries and cultures. It can be a matter of how you present yourself physically – what you wear, how you speak, how you hold yourself or your posture, and how you interact with others. Are you shaking hands? Are you making appropriate eye contact? Professionalism can also be how you present your work ethic, show your skills, meet deadlines, and handle challenges. 

But no matter what industry you’re in or the culture you’re from, professionalism at work can boil down to just a few common things: respect, responsibility, integrity, and accountability. It’s important that you show these traits during your job search and in the workplace afterward. 

How to Be Professional During Your Job Search

If you’re looking for a new job, there are a few steps to take. First, you’ll need to develop a resume to showcase your abilities. Next, you’ll submit applications, which hopefully will land you some interviews. Between these two steps, you can also network through websites like LinkedIn to build your professional network and increase your chances of finding opportunities. 

Each of these steps requires some sort of professionalism. But how do you showcase professionalism in your resume, during interviews, and while networking? Let’s find out. 

Showcasing Professionalism in Your Resume

Your resume is often the first impression an employer will have of you, so you want to put your best professional self forward. Start by listing your credentials. This could be anything from your education and experience to your soft skills like problem-solving and communication. Highlight any accomplishments, from certifications to achievements from previous jobs. 

And finally, make sure to proofread your resume. You don’t want your resume full of spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes. 

Showcasing Professionalism During Interviews 

Now is when the real test of professionalism begins. While your resume is technically the first impression you’ll give, interviews are the first (usually) face-to-face interaction and impression. Which means you need to bring your A-game to the table. Many interviews are conducted in person, but some may be held over the phone or through a remote environment like Zoom. 

If you’re meeting face-to-face or through a video call, you can do a few things to show professionalism. First, make sure you’re dressed appropriately. You’ll also want to be prepared, so research the company and practice common interview questions and answers. Shake hands, maintain eye contact as you’re able, sit up straight, and nod during the interview to show that you’re engaged.

Is your interview over the phone? Here are some best practices: 

• Answer the phone professionally
• Sit in a quiet place with no distractions
• Speak clearly and concisely 
• Take notes and ask questions 

Showcasing Professionalism While Networking 

Whether you’re networking via LinkedIn or at in-person events, it’s your time to shine professionally. To show professionalism during networking, you can reach out and make connections, introduce yourself, keep your networking profiles updated, pass out business cards, join professional organizations, and offer guidance to others. Also, make sure you have a good elevator pitch. 

How to Be Professional at Work

So, you’ve landed the job, but your journey to professionalism isn’t over yet. You also need to learn how to be professional at work. However, being professional in the workplace can differ depending on where you work. 

Demonstrating Professionalism at the Office

If you’re working at the office, appearance should be one of your top priorities. Wear clean, wrinkle-free clothing that adheres to your company’s dress code or is just slightly above it (even in a casual office setting, you can still showcase professionalism with your attire). Communicate clearly and when it’s your turn. Actively listen and make sure you’re engaged in what others are saying. 

Take initiative and help your colleagues whenever you can. Accept and implement feedback on how you can better your own work. Follow all company policies and rules. Be respectful and courteous.

While many of the Gen Zers (73.7%) we surveyed for our latest report believed they had strong workplace etiquette skills, employers’ observations are the opposite. In fact, 52.8% of employers said Gen Z needs to improve in this area. With those stats in mind, it’s important that you do your best to follow the above steps and demonstrate professionalism at the office. 

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Demonstrating Professionalism in Hybrid and Remote Environments

Managing a hybrid work environment and switching between in-office and remote settings can be challenging. However, you should still do your best to demonstrate professionalism at work – both at the office and when working remotely. Above everything, you must ensure that your communication skills are at the top of your game. Respond promptly to your colleagues and manager when feasible and be mindful of others’ schedules, too – if a coworker is in a meeting and your message can wait, hold off on reaching out.

Yes, working from home comes with the added benefit of being able to work in your pajamas, but if you’re going into a video call, you’ll need to change it up and wear something more appropriate. And if you have to switch between in-office and remote settings, make and stick to a consistent work schedule so that you can seamlessly transition from office to home. 

Showing Professionalism at Work

As you look for your next job or transition into a new role, you must present yourself professionally and make sure you’re giving a good first impression. Whether through your resume, job interview, or the job itself, it’s important to put your best self forward. 

Get even more guidance with iHire’s job seeker resources today, and explore our database of verified and curated jobs to find your next great opportunity.