Has it ever happened to you that the moment you step into a room (or into a virtual meeting) someone radiates professional? Having a title or wearing a suit is not always important. Subtle, nearly unnoticeable behaviors are often what set a person out as competent, self-assured, and polished.
Professionalism, I’ve learned throughout my career, isn’t about making a show. Rather, it’s the attention to detail that really matters. If you want to seem and feel more put-together in an instant, consider these seven offbeat suggestions.
1. Be Brave, Seek Pardon, and Take Risks
I used to second-guess myself all the time, questioning if I was making the “right” choice or if I required someone else’s permission before acting on any workplace decision. However, something else caught my eye: the coworkers who were brave and determined were the ones who were respected.
Hesitation, here’s the thing, can sound like uncertainty. You show leadership and self-assurance when you take the lead, even if it means making adjustments afterward. Rather than acting carelessly, this is having faith in your judgment and moving quickly.
Advice: Quickly assess the potential consequences and proceed the next time you must make a decision. Prolonged thinking is less appreciated by most people than action.
2. Make Sure Your Digital Meeting Space Is Well-Lit
Believe me when I say this is a game-changer, even though it sounds shallow. Uneven lighting that made me appear dull or cast strange shadows was a problem when I used to participate in virtual meetings. I observed an instant change after purchasing a little ring light and repositioning my setup close to a window.
Proper lighting does more than enhance your appearance; it conveys a sense of seriousness in every conversation. You can make yourself more noticeable in a crowded Zoom call by using a well-lit face.
A word of advice: Let the sunshine shine in. If that isn’t possible, then even a cheap ring light can be quite helpful.
3. Be Accurate When Pronouncing Names
The truth is that everyone enjoys it when their name is pronounced correctly. This seemingly insignificant act demonstrates thoughtfulness, consideration, and appreciation.
To be honest, I’ve felt uneasy every time I fumbled over a name in the past. I now always make sure to ask for clarification or make a phonetic note of names that I don’t hear much if I’m confused.
“I want to make sure I pronounce your name correctly.” This is a helpful tip to use when meeting someone with a difficult name. Would you be able to show me the way?” Everyone is grateful when you try.
No meeting is complete without a notepad.
This one is easy to understand and execute. Writing things down on paper still has a certain agelessness, even in this digital world. Two things happened when I began carrying a little notepad to meetings: one, I remained more interested, and second, those around me thought I was paying more attention.
Compared to typing them on a laptop, handwritten notes show more attention to detail and dedication. It’s not a huge step, but it can have a significant impact.
Advice: Invest in a stylish, business-oriented notebook or notepad for all your note-taking needs; it’s functional and classy.
5. Make Use of Pausing While Speaking
I used to have a hard time getting my thoughts down on paper when I was first starting out. I’d be so anxious about getting my idea over that I’d start talking too much and not let others catch on. Next, I realized the significance of pausing.
Pausing strategically demonstrates command of the conversation and gives your words more weight. Even when you’re not sure of yourself, this little trick will make you look more assured.
A helpful hint is to practice pausing in everyday speech. While it may be uncomfortable at first, you’ll soon find that the rhythm improves your communication.
6. Always Wear Freshly Polished Shoes
The day my mentor said, “People judge you by your shoes,” is one that I will always remember. I didn’t give it much thought at the time, but now I see how accurate it is. Shoes that are polished and well-kept show that you care about how you look.
Clean, well-maintained shoes may make a statement even in more relaxed situations. Even though it’s small, more people will notice it than you would believe.
In case you need to touch up your shoes quickly before a big meeting or occasion, a little shoe care kit is a good investment.
7. Inquire, “How can I be of service?” Frequently when
My perspective on collaboration has evolved because of this question. I used to be really good at getting things done on my own when I was first starting out. Unexpected opportunities opened for me when I began to ask, “What can I do to help?” to everyone I interacted with, from coworkers and managers to clients.
You can demonstrate initiative, empathy, and a genuine interest in the team’s success by offering assistance. Being helpful is important, but so is earning respect and trust.
Advice: Work this question into all of your conversations frequently. It’s a modest act that has a significant influence.
Just How Important Are the Details?
Being professional isn’t about flashy clothes and elaborate presentations. Your ideals, respect for others, and meticulousness in your work are best shown by your habits. These seemingly insignificant changes have a significant impact when added together.
That being said, which one will you begin with? The most impact on my day-to-day encounters has been remembering to bring a notepad and to pronounce names correctly. Describe in detail the little habits you intend to adopt in order to become a more professional person.