Golden rules to nail success: Be job ready by arming yourself with these work ethics to be a thriving professional--Swati Rai

There are basic behavioural, personality and inter-personal skills that are expected of an employee on board any organisation. Apart from the hard skills that are tested at the personal interview, it is the incumbent's professional work ethos that just might make him/her the “most valued employee” of the year.

There is an overkill of usage of the word ‘professional’ these days. Essentially it means conforming to the standards of a particular profession. These standards may pertain to dress code, deportment, professional dealings and expected behaviour in sync with the organisatio’s goals. Keep these handy tips in mind to project yourself as a thorough professional which will help you sail through your worklife merrily

Dressed to ‘skill’

Restrict your Friday dressing to Fridays only. Your dress - and that includes the way you wear your hair- is your first impression each time. There are certain dress conventions in each industry relating to both men and women. These ought to be followed and respected at all times to project an image of surety and success. Reserve the blatant display of tattoos and body piercings for after work hours.

• Avoid using too much of cologne or perfume as the case may be.
• Unkempt, dishevelled hair or even excessive gelling of hair and extreme hairstyles are a strict no-no at work.
• Women should avoid showing off the midriff, wearing skirts that are too tight or too short, open sandals or shoes.

Respect — A must have

This includes being courteous and trustworthy and adhering to the laid down norms. Respect for a fellow worker is the hallmark of a true professional. Do not be in a rush to pass a harsh judgement on a co-worker's personality. Everyone’s beliefs and ideas are a product of one’s background and its motivations are embedded in one’s past. So you can't expect them to align with your views always. When one is required to work in tandem it becomes important to respect a team member’s view. There can be disagreements and arguments over the correct approach to solve a problem, but don’t make it a public ego spat. This approach will make the team goals suffer in the long run and earn you the reputation of being a difficult worker.

Integrity — the most important skill

Once in a seat of responsibility, you are responsible for the decision you take, so consider the far reaching impact of your decision. To be a bankable employee, one on whose judgement and discretion the management has faith, weigh your words judiciously. Maintain neat records of the expenses incurred by you on behalf of the company and present them through the proper channel.

• Lying, cheating, hiding facts, however trivial, will have a damaging effect on your commitment to the organisation.
• Seek help in case it is required. It is better to seek help rather than suffering losses due to the lack of adequate knowledge.

Professionally speaking

You may be working for any sector, service or product but never forget that an organisation's main requirement is that the job is done efficiently and effectively. For this you have to respect deadlines, quality assurance and back-up services.

• Do not waste time by engaging in gossip, loose talk or salacious talk at work, instead stick to plan A of work.
• Try to steer clear of petty office politics.
• n Share your knowledge, mentor the younger lot and guide them for the role of future leaders.
• Do not be petty, selfish or mean in dealing with your subordinates.
• Do not expose yourself by trying to hog the limelight by side-stepping a work ant as an astute senior would take note and that won’t work well for you.
• Be an active volunteer in other related professional or voluntary organisation.
• Work on honing your skills more and more.

Men and women @work

Do not ignore an informed constructive criticism not only from your boss but also from a fellow worker.

• In work life be punctual and set an example and standard for yourself.
• Keep your opinions of other people to yourself and concentrating on the job at hand.
• While taking a professional decision don't let your personal feelings interfere with logic.
• Be quick to accept a mistake and rectify it immediately also learn from it.
• Before proceeding on leave finish your work and not wait for others to step in to your seat and execute your decisions and work on your behalf.
• Learn to keep confidential details to yourself and not divulge information at the drop of a hat.
• As a boss, be forthright yet fair while giving an appraisal oral or written.

Be social media savvy

Social networking sites are a great way to stay in touch and also enhance business development activities. It does not, however, mean that when you work at your desk you are logged on to Twitter and Facebook and logged out of work. Most corporates have a social media usage policy in place. Even if there is none then also it is good to limit virtual socialising at work. Moreover, one must also be cautious about airing controversial views or post pictures that can in any way harm the image and privacy of the company.

— The writer is an English language and life skills trainer

Source: The Tribune, 18 July 2012