Professionalism
How do you instill professionalism into a student?
Professionalism is also linked to self respect. We should be also teaching students to have a healthy self image. If we are teaching them correctly and they are learning something it should be building there self-confident hopefully resulting in a better way that a person cares themselves.
Hi Willie,
You make a number of very good points covering the development of professionalism as instructors.
Your recommendation to join professional organizations is a good one. The benefits of organizations like this last an entire career. Members become a part of a professional group that assists them in their career development as well as being a part of a network of associates. Many beginning professionals don't realize how important such organizations can be so they don't join them right away. Most organizations like this have student memberships that allow the students to participate and become familiar with such group. Also, listing these types of memberships on their resumes really help as well.
Gary
To instill professionalism in our students, we simply act like professionals. We should dress professionally, speak correctly (with Standard American English), always be clean, and polite. If you are teaching a business class, for example, dress in business attire (wear a long-sleeve shirt and tie with slacks, or a suit). If you are teaching a class in journalism, do the same.
Professionalism, however, goes farther than just dress and correct grammar. I also agree with James. Encouraging students to get involved in professional organizations is a must. As a mass communications major in undergrad, I was encouraged to join the National Association of Black Journalist (NABJ) by one of my instructors. This was an invaluable experience for me.
We can also encourage our students to do internships in their chosen field. This will ensure that they get a better handle on professionalism.
I agree with what you're saying Sonia. You have to lead by example. If the student observe your behavior and dress as that of a professional, then he/she will tend to want to model that.
Barbara
Encourage them to become involved in professional organizations and to continue learning by taking advantage of any continuing education opportunities after graduation.
Hi Jan,
I agree with you about professionalism. As instructors we cannot emphasize this too much. If our students are going to be successful they have to know how to conduct themselves as professionals. 90% of jobs are lost as a result of not getting along with fellow workers or the lack of professionalism so having the skill sets is not enough for career success.
Gary
I have come to realize that some students do not have an understanding of the definition of professionalism. They have not had the opportunity to interact with professionals (in any field) and really do not understand this concept. Some students feel that by just putting on a uniform makes them a professional and they should command power and respect.
It is a challenge to teach them that professionalism requires knowledge, appropriate behavior, respect, outward appearance, social compentence, among many other qualities.
I completely agree that by instructors modeling professionalism, we can begin to teach this important aspect to our students. But additionally, we may need to take the time to define and explain what professialism is as well as why it is essential for success.
Hi Sonia,
By modeling professional dress and behavior. Also, by asking of the student what the career field demands. If the student doesn't live up to those standards then time should be spent explaining how those standards must be met. If the student still doesn't live up to the standards then I meet with the student and the school administration to see about an alternative placement.
Gary
