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Professionalism
Professionalism involves a lot more than a good wardrobe and good manners. Professionalism differs somewhat from company to company, but generally it involves adhering to existing norms in the organization. It involves the demeanor of the individual. It involves respect for the needs of both internal and external customers.
Here are some of the characteristics of professional business conduct that companies look for in their credit department staff:
- A strong work ethic;
- Strong problem solving skills;
- Intelligence;
- Decisiveness;
- A commitment to professional development and self-improvement;
- A positive attitude;
- A willingness to accept constructive criticism;
- Acknowledging valid criticism
- Refuting what is not
- Being open to what is being said
- Recognizing that criticims is an opportunity for self-improvement
- A willingness to provide candid and constructive feedback to others including subordinates;
- Creativity;
- Results orientation;
- The ability to keep commitments;
- Willing to accept responsibility for errors;
- Collaborative;
- Taking full responsibility for your decisions and actions;
- Involved in professional organizations;
- Willing to confront subordinates that demonstrate inappropriate behavior or take inappropriate action;
- The ability to control emotions even in high stress situations;
- Respect and courtesy demonstrated to co-workers and customers;
- Prepared to explore ways to prevent errors from occurring;
- The ability to motivates subordinates;
- Enjoys the respect and support of co-workers;
- Recognizes the special role of the credit department as a representative of your company who interacts with customers regularly and about significant issues;
- Tenacity;
- Loyal;
- Many companies have adopted a business casual dress code. The key is moderation. Consider dressing a bit more conservatively than others.
One final thought: Being hired and at least equally importantly being promoted is based on more than just technical skill and competence. It involves the way in which an individual communicates, along with their image and demeanor combined with perceptions about their interactions with peers as well as superiors and subordinates
© 2009 by Michael C. Dennis. All Rights Reserved. Michael is the author of "1001 Collection Tools and Tips."