IN any organisation emphasis is likely placed on the need to be professional. But, while you may have heard the word countless times, not many people know what it actually means and/or requires.

Nathaniel Peat, serial entrepreneur and CEO of Gennex Solar, said when thinking of professionalism, one should consider a chicken fighting over chicken feed, and an eagle who simply adjusts itself and rises above the problem.

“You have to shift and adjust your mind with a pragmatic approach towards a solution,” Peat said.

Apart from being able to adjust to different working conditions and situations, Peat explained, other ways that professionalism may be shown in the workplace.

1. Separate business from personal matters

Peat explained that personal emotions should never get in the way of business or specific tasks to be completed.

2. Respect

Understanding protocol and showing respect is a part of professionalism. “Address people with the right titles and don’t be too chummy,” Peat said.

3. Handle problems in a calm manner

It is never advised to get into a quarrel at work. According to Peat: “When people have a dig at you, do not react to it, but instead see the solution and don’t focus on the problem.”

4. Honour time commitments, go beyond expectations

Showing respect for people’s time, especially your employer’s, is an extremely important thing. “Professionalism means you will be on time, aim for excellence, go the extra mile, and perform your role at optimum performance,” Peat said.

5. Structure your work

Being well organised and structured is always a plus. If you’re professional you won’t operate in a haphazard way, but you will employ structure to your tasks.

6. Display good customer service skills

Peat explained that in business you may have to interact with other persons apart from your co-workers. “In this sense professionalism means you will handle problems discreetly when the business is client facing, where you have to interact with customers.”