The Question

If you could tell graduate students about one professional standard that is routinely violated but is of critical importance as they embark on their careers - what is that standard?

34 – Total Responses from

2 - Clergy 3 - Government officials 6 - University Professors 7 - University Administrators 7 - Non-Profit Administrators 9 - Private Industry Administrators

#1 - Publish Research & Public Accountability

. . . Many ‘academics’ do not give enough consideration to their responsibility to inform the public about their work.   Lip service and a few talks or even fewer publications are given by some, but being esoteric and admired by your colleagues is considered to be so much more important . . . Despite the mantra of "publish or perish,” . . . far too many professionals fail to finish projects . . .

# 2 - Responsiveness

. . . follow thru with commitments that are made. ...and even follow up.  I've encountered many folks who take on tasks and projects with no intention of meeting their deadlines . . . or even finishing.  Take on only what you can do and do well. respecting the deadlines our colleagues are working with but can’t accomplish without everyone’s input.

#3 – Saying Thanks & Giving Credit

Giving credit to those who came before you, whose work you used as a platform for your own work . . . . . . give credit to everyone that deserves it in presentations and papers.  This will surprise friends and confound enemies!! Thank-you notes- “be gracious if it kills you” is the motto you should live by.

#4 Being on Time & Prepared

Show up Taking a little extra time the night before to go over your resume, portfolio or speech for a big presentation, interview or meeting can really make a difference in your confidence and your professional appearance.

#5 - Appearance & Demeanor

. . . students in XX Program often don't perceive their Practicum experience as a professional experience. . . dressing like a student as opposed to dressing like the other persons working in the establishment Having a ridiculous . . . ringtone . . . (or) voicemail message that goes like “leave your stuff, I’m ignoring you, and I might call you later sometime” . . . texting and emailing on your phone during a meeting . . . staying parked on Facebook all day . . .

#6 - Defensiveness Toward Criticism

Inability to critically recognize when defensiveness has creeped in -- negatively affecting their judgment and behavior. It is possible to be an excellent scholar (and person) and produce work that receives criticism from one's peers- often harsh criticism.   . . . acknowledging when you don't know the answer or when you have made a mistake.

And . . . .

Never presume you know more than the secretary. Approach each opportunity as if it will be the only opportunity you have to make a positive impression. . . . basic courtesy.  Simple acts such as communicating with colleagues, subordinates, and superiors work wonders.  When people extend professional courtesy to others and maintain integrity throughout their career, I see those people as exhibiting a high degree of professionalism.

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