Presidential Ramblings

About this time of the month I start to think about a topic for my monthly article. As a professional, I want to get my article to our newsletter editor without her having to remind me. Then it hit me. What is professionalism? Below are 10 traits I consider important as a professional.

1. Competence. You’re good at what you do and have the skills and knowledge to do your job well. If you are lacking in certain areas, take classes or seek out others to help you gain the knowledge you don’t have. In our office attorneys and staff are willing to share their knowledge so that the whole team succeeds.

2. Reliability. People can depend on you to show up on time and have your work completed when it is supposed to be ready. If something is taking longer than anticipated, if possible, seek assistance from co-workers in order to make that deadline, or speak with the attorney and explain why the assignment is taking longer than anticipated. Sometimes attorneys have an unrealistic expectation as to when something can be completed, and unless you talk to them about the assignment and what it entails, they have no idea the deadline is unreasonable.

3. Honesty. You tell the truth and are upfront about where things stand. Do not lie to your boss. If you mess up on something, admit it, but at the same time, have a solution to fix the mistake.

4. Respect Others. Treat all people as if they matter. People are more willing to go out of their way to help those who treat them well. This includes file clerks; runners; people who repair your office equipment; and support services - such as copy services, messenger services, and court reporters.

5. Self Upgrade. Rather than letting your skills or knowledge become outdated, you seek out ways to stay current. Take classes, attend seminars, and update your skills set. Attend the SNAP and LAD seminar on May 18, 2012. (A copy of the flyer is included in this newsletter.)

6. Be Positive. No one likes a constant pessimist. Have an upbeat attitude and try to be a problem-solver. Be the person others want to be around and come to for answers and help.

7. Support Others. You share the spotlight with colleagues, take time to show others how to do things properly, and lend an ear when necessary. Take the time to cross-train employees. The more employees who know how to do things, the more efficient your office will run. When you are on vacation, you will be less stressed knowing that things are getting done while you are away, and hopefully, that pile on your desk may be just a bit smaller.

8. Stay Work-Focused. While it can’t always be done, try not to let your private life needlessly have an impact on your job. In addition, limit time spent attending to personal matters. We are being paid to work and assist our clients. Put that cell phone away and do your job.

9. Listen Carefully. People want to be heard, so give them a chance to explain their ideas properly. This includes co-workers and clients. The more we listen, the more we learn.

10. Ethical. You are known for your high moral code. You keep client matters confidential and you bill your clients fairly, without inflating your billable hours.

Respectfully submitted,
Susan Sunday, ACP
President