Professionalism

Professionalism of course, there is a textbook definition but in essence it means placing your
own interests aside and adhering to a strict code of conduct, ethics and behavior to look out for the
interests of other persons. Each profession has its own guidelines for professional behavior based on the
goals and processes within the field. Characteristics of professionalism include but are not limited to
accountability, integrity, compassion, and excellence. The job in which the person is applying to or
working should provide guidelines of how the individual should dress and conduct themselves.
As with any profession, educators must dress in a manner that communicates an appropriate
message about the teacher and the school at which she works. As professionals teachers want to dress
to impress, to build confidence in her abilities with all stakeholders. Nice dress pants and a blouse that is
not sheer would be appropriate. A dress or skirt should be of an appropriate length so that the teacher
may move freely about the room, often needing to kneel to assist students, without compromising the
integrity of the attire. Professionalism also means to excel in the designated profession by having the
motivation to acquire new knowledge, implement it into her practices and share it with others.