As a new industry emerges, professionalizing it has become an urgent necessity. Not only does professionalization lead to higher wages and better working conditions as the field gains recognition and respect, but standardization and efficiency make expertise and serving diverse needs possible.
To professionalize a field (with or without certification, etc.), it's helpful to consider these three areas: reliability and integrity, respect, and competence.
Following through on commitments, meeting deadlines, and consistently delivering high-quality work means taking responsibility and being accountable for the actions and outcomes. Being honest about what we can and cannot do helps build trust with the people we seek to serve.
Maintaining appropriate boundaries between personal and work. Treating peers and customers with respect regardless of individual emotions and experiences. Handling conflicts at work constructively rather than emotionally.
Clear and respectful communication, both in speaking and writing, as well as actively listening to others, also demonstrates skills and competence. Changing communication styles to different audiences, situations, and needs helps everyone.
Continuously developing skills, staying current in the field, and seeking learning build competence. Maintaining confidentiality when required and acting ethically, even when no one is watching, leads to further trust within the team and with customers.
Instead of prioritizing tasks, consider it as the bare minimum. Pushing back on the default to-do list and thinking about what's possible demonstrates critical thinking skills and a desire to reach remarkable goals.
Even without professionalization, thriving in these aspects helps individuals, teams, and the overall industry reach what's possible instead of what's merely available.
