How to Be Professional in a Corporate Environment

Starting a new job can be terrifying – new colleagues, bosses, and tasks that can only be described as unfamiliar. We often place a big emphasis on how we act and what we say in the workplace. There is a certain time for jokes, and we all know with some organizations, there is a blurred line between what’s deemed as professional and what isn’t. This article will provide tips and tricks on how to be more professional, own your space in the workplace, and leave a positive impression on your colleagues and supervisors.

The following list of tips will make you more professional and trustworthy.

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1.    Dress the part and maximize micro upkeeps –it sounds cliché but over time, looking at the part plays an important role in how you’re viewed as a person. It increases confidence levels in the work place and draws others to you. We’re human, and humans love visual appeal. Chipped nail polish, unkempt hair, and overbearing body odour aren’t things you want to be known for at the office. So be wary of the dress code, observe what your successful colleagues wear, and blend in your own style to make it unique and personal.

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2.    Stay out of gossip, period. Hey, I get it.When we’re comfortable, we tend to overshare and when there’s a discussion going on, actively chipping in will make you feel as though you are part of the team. When is it too much, though? If you start to participate in deep conversations regarding somebody else’s life, then it’s time to take a step back, because nothing good stems from that kind of interaction. Beware – others who gossip to you may gossip about you.

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3.    Make eye contact and master your handshake – appropriate eye contact is so important. Maintaining an appropriate amount of eye contact will demonstrate confidence, honesty, and respect. Handshakes may be a thing of the past due to COVID- 19, but without a doubt, they will come back. It represents one’s own abilities and builds a sense of trust.

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4.    Treat others the way you want to be treated. This one is especially important, as showing respect to your colleagues builds trust and mutual understanding. There is nothing more emotionally draining than a toxic work environment. It all starts with you. Hold the door open for others, acknowledge the presence of others with a kind smile, and give others your undivided attention. Nobody wants to be treated badly, including yourself, so why do it to other people?

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5.    Be open-minded to new ideas and be coachable. There are so many things to learn and nobody, I repeat, nobody likes a know-it-all. The truth is you don’t know everything, and human error tends to happen. If you’re open-minded, you’ll come off as open-minded and genuine. Taking the time to ask questions and learn from your peers is one of the best professional qualities you can have. It encourages engagement, acceptance, and relationship building.

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6.    Pay attention toYour Vocabulary – We’ve all swore in the workplace, it happens. Keep it in moderation, though. Speak with intent and listen more than you speak.

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7.    Be on time and be mindful of the time of others – Being on time is more than simply showing up. It’s showing up ready, with the intention of being fully present. Be considerate of your colleagues’ time because punctuality and being mindful of this will go a long way in terms of respect.

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8.    Be active, not reactive – It can become stressful in the workplace but keeping a calm and logical head will get you far.It will demonstrate a sense of control, integrity, and a knack for logical reasoning.

More tips!

To help you further, here are additional tips that can help you master professionalism and make you stand out: Visit this article by Glassdoor!

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