Professionalism...

This week I received some interesting comments regarding “Professionalism” One of my groups pointed out that my profile picture didn’t express the intention which I was trying to achieve. I took a look at it from a neutral perspective, and I agreed.

This brings me to todays topic: Professionalism and the Workplace. With every project I have strived to present myself as a commodity or a brand, who just happens to be on loan to my employers as a sub-contracted asset. This meant that every decision I made during work hours, to the benefit of the company, was one which would not embarrass myself or the company, and that everything I did was for the good of the company. This thinking led to win-win situations, as the company grew in positive reputation, and my personal stock rose by my good consideration.

I always tried to be conscious of the decisions I made and their impact on my working environment, thus I became a positive asset and people came back time and again for my insight, my suggestions and eventually after all the clients needs were met, the sale.

Now I am in a situation where I am the prime product, representing RBS Staffing Consultants; in a role where personal reputation and professionalism lends itself to many different work scenarios; where my reputation precedes me almost all the time. I have attempted to market myself in such a way that I give our clients a sense of knowledge, of having the ability to do the job, of being open to new ideas and suggestions of how best to suit their needs. One simple thing was keeping me from achieving these goals: My Profile Picture! Instead of conveying the image of a hard working professional, my photo was too informal, and was leading others to think that I didn’t take myself seriously or care enough for my chosen profession to add a bit of class to the business card.

Interesting thought; after all the years (35+) of work experience, one photograph was keeping me from the path chosen to achieve my goals. The suggestion didn’t even begin with my circle, it came from the outside. I claim to be the total professional, and I give my all to each and every assignment, but my photo showed the opposite. Well, as of today there is a new photo on my sites and hopefully now people will realize that I am THE Daniel J Smith, Sourcer and Social Media Maven, Professional People Person with opinions to share. A new day has dawned and I now know that to talk the talk, you first have to learn how to walk the walk.

Something to Think About……