Saturday Ambassador
In its simplest form, professionalism requires that you
treat others with the consideration and respect they deserve. Consider this: My
dentist is a pleasant and competent doctor who shares his office and work load
with another practitioner. Two days ago I visited his office to have an implant
placed. This is an expensive and invasive procedure for which the other doctor
was the one available. Although I've had my dentistry done in this office for
years, this other doctor consistently mispronounces my name. As I feel he
should know better by now, I politely corrected him. He continued to mangle my reasonably-easy
name throughout the visit, however. The message this sends to me is that I am
so unimportant to him, both as a client and as a person, that he could not be
bothered to remember the pronunciation I provided (he had the benefit of the
name printed on the chart). His dentistry was excellent, which was most
essential, of course. Yet, I did not find his unfortunate expression of my
moniker particularly endearing or professional.
Dental Implant Illustration http://dentalcarematters.com/wp-content/uploads/dental-implant.jpg
Professionalism is not simply a behavioral characteristic
– it is a state of mind. As a photographer, you are likely to maintain a
business at some point, and you will certainly be required to deal with other
people in a manner conducive to making that business a success. Part of this
involves your attitude toward the business, about life in general and the
regard you show for others with whom you engage in commerce.
Another part is the conscious effort you apply to all
your communications. As a consumer, you have probably been on the receiving end
of some disrespectful or thoughtless comment or action. If you did not deserve
it, how did it make you feel? Think about this when dealing with your own
clients and colleagues. Develop good communications skills and an agreeable
demeanor. Practice them often so they become habit.
Professionalism also involves punctuality. A pervasive negative
attitude about this seems to be plaguing our society. If you make an agreement
to arrive at a particular time, provide a regular service or have a deadline
for an assignment, meet it – every time, no excuses. The party with whom you
made the agreement has every right to expect it, and doing otherwise generates
an inconvenience which reflects negatively on you.
A professional demeanor and attitude can take you far and
contribute to your success in the industry. Strive for excellence in everything you do.
~Saturday
Ambassador
