6 Signs of Professionalism

So when discussing leaders v. business people, there are many differences; however, there are many similarities as well. Both need to be professional in everything that they do. So what are some basic characteristics of a professional?

1. A professional is courteous. A true professional may disagree with you, but they will never be rude to you. They will maintain their composure and always speak politely.*

2. A professional is reliable. When you engage a true professional to do your work, you can count on the fact that it will be done. A professional takes their work seriously and will not abandon work or a client.*

3. A professional is respectful. A true professional listens attentively to your suggestions and ideas. They will inform you if they think you should do something differently, but they will not belittle or insult you.*

4. A professional is honest. With a true professional, you know what you are getting. Their word is good, and they will honestly report all of their actions.*

5. A professional is responsible. A true professional will acknowledge and take responsibility for their actions - even they occasionally make mistakes.*

6. A professional is competent. A professional knows how to get the job done and is up-t0-date with the most recent developments in his or her field.*

All of these things not only apply to the business person, but to a leader as well. Can you think of any true leaders that don't hold all of these characteristics? I sure can't.

*http://freelancefolder.com/what-does-professionalism-look-like/

Book Review 1--A work in progress

I am currently reading Principle-Centered Leadership by Stephen R. Covey. I've had this book for about a month, and it generally doesn't take me that long to read things; however, I have been really busy with school and student organizations. This means I haven't had much time to read, BUT this isn't all my fault. So far, it hasn't been a book that I've fallen into, hung on every word. Some of it is stuff that seems to be common sense and some of it is insightful, but I'll probably have a better grasp of it by the end of this coming weekend. We have a fall break coming up, starting Wednesday, so I should be able to finish it this weekend.
I am working on another post dealing with Leadership v. Managership, but it's not quite refined yet. I just wanted to make it clear that I'm not just going to post cute little cartoons :)

Development

Give thanks for what you are now, and keep fighting for what you want to be tomorrow.-Fernanda Miramontes-Landeros


I read that quote and thought, "Yeah, development is like that." You cannot beat yourself up over the things you have done or the person you have become. The only thing that we can proactively do is change the things that we don't like so that we may become positive thinkers about ourselves and others. We cannot change who we are at this second, but we can change who we are in the next, who we are tomorrow, and who we are for the rest of our lives. Don't let anyone bring you down, remember that everything you do today affects the world of the future, and keep fighting the good fight.

Yes, yes...that may be the case...

Instead of irony, I suppose it's more of a play on words..."following the leadership [blog]." Leader with followers. We thought it was hilarious at the time...but that could also be due to this being the last day of midterms (delirium).

But Cleverbot...that doesn't make sense

No Resources for the Young Folks

So as I've tried to develop myself as a leader, I've encountered a problem. I am 21 years old. How is this a problem, you ask...well, try picking up a book on leadership development. See how far into it you get before seeing references to "the company" and "business in the company." What company? I am in college. I take classes, I take part in extracurricular activities, and I'm well-rounded (for the most part; no sports haha).


Then I wondered, "How many students out there are having this problem? This...lack of resources?" I mean, I'm sure there are resources available, but I sure have had a problem trying to find them.

The basics of leadership stay the same no matter what level you are at; however, it's a lot easier to read a book (or a blog for that matter) that is tailored specifically to your needs. I'm hoping to (aha, we reach the point!!!) create a blog that tracks my quest to become a student leader, and through that, a leader in my life. I will be doing book reviews, student coordinating events, speaking to leaders in my area (area = college), and probably some other stuff.

I just want to make this interesting, fun, and a way for people who are young adults (I hate that term, but I couldn't think of a better one) to learn how to be a better leader. It really is important. It's what sets you apart; it's what brings you to the top of the ladder (I won't say corporate, because we [for the most part] aren't in suits with briefcases and typewriters). So we'll see if this is successful, if I keep it up, and if there's anyone else who wants to help me with this (because I'm not the only student leader out there!!!)

So follow, contribute, suggest, and help yourself, myself, and others grow!!!