Staff Writer – Katrin Callender
We were silent in the elevator. A few peasantries may have been exchanged; a comment, gesture or smile from an individual to a companion; but mostly silent. Then we stopped. The door opened. A figure pushed her way to the front. She stepped out. But she didn’t go far. As the door began to close, her gloved hand caught it. She returned with two empty boxes in hand, pushed her way to the back and deposited these on the floor. She pushed her way to the front once more, all the time wearing a scowl, and left, grumbling under her breath. There was jeering and snickering from a group of young people-those who had been shoved aside as she moved back and forth- and disenchantment from the more mature persons riding the elevator. But it was evident that all felt displeasure and disgust at the attitude that we had all had to endure.Was she having a bad day? Had someone in the elevator upset her? Did she hate the job that she was doing? Did she feel as though we were looking down our noses at her? Did it matter if the answer to all these was ‘yes’? No one had a bad taste in their mouth until after this interaction. We may not have noticed that she was a member of the custodial staff- there was no uniform to indicate- and even if we had, few would have cared. We were shocked and appalled by her roughness and her negative aura. In that moment, regardless of any accolades to her credit, she demonstrated a lack of professionalism.
One reason to ensure that we exude professionalism is that we can never assume that our actions go on unobserved. What if this individual had behaved the way she did in front of a new boss? What sort of message would she be sending? While some may argue that this is acceptable when you receive a small salary- it is not. We must show that we are efficient employees, not just by doing the task well but doing it with an air of gratitude and enjoyment- even when that job is not pleasant.
Is this guy professional or what? Photo courtesy booher.com
Another reason to exhibit professionalism is because this influences the way we see ourselves. Even when we do not like the job, or the staff, we control ourselves and behaving in a shameful manner reflects badly on us, only. Additionally, most new employers ask for references, so whether disgraceful behavior results in dismissal or whether we decide to move on, all past behaviors become factors to be considered in a decision about our future. And should our past actions be discreditable, we, alone, bear the burden of heartache.
Interns and veterans, custodians and CEOs, exhibit professionalism, regardless of the pay! There is more to be gained by doing so. Your rewards may be spiritual or emotional, but monetary benefits may also come your way- you determine whether you are a candidate!
