Punctuality is starting work on time

Workplace cultureA unique blend of workplace values that are reflected
in the firm's policies and actions. varies from place to place. There may even be different standards or levels of expected professionalism for different departments within the same organization.

To figure out how you should fit in, watch and listen to those around you. You need to get a sense for dressing properly for your job, work expectations, when it is proper to visit with co-workers, etc.

Other tips for maintaining professionalism include:

Be on time. When you are scheduled to start working, then that is exactly what time you should start working, rather than the time you should show up for work. Punctuality is an important quality that employers look for in their workers.  If you are aware that the traffic is heavy or that there is construction, a train, or anything else that might make your commute longer than usual, you should leave home earlier so as not to be late. If you do not have your own transportation for whatever reason (your car is in the shop, you do not have a license, etc.) then it is important to become familiar with public transportation. Remember, it is always better to be early than late. To learn about public transportation in Illinois, visit the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) website.

Maintain good attendance. When you are scheduled to be at work everyone else is relying on you to be there. Calling in frequently not only hurts your employer and fellow employees but reflects badly on you. You will be considered unreliable, and your employer may stop scheduling you or even let you go.

Participate in employment orientation and training. Taking advantage of training opportunities allows you to master more skills in your workplace and to network with coworkers and supervisors. Click here to learn more about Professional Networking.

Understand the business’ image, products, and/or services.

Treat people with respect and act properly. Do not tell rude or embarrassing jokes, gossip, use slang, or use harmful language. Click here to learn how to avoid being involved with gossip.

Respect privacy policies. Privacy policies are made to protect individuals and may be required by law in some cases. Breaking a privacy policy may result in termination. If you do not understand the privacy policy, be sure to clarify it with a supervisor or the boss.

Participate in meetings with a positive and helpful attitude

Attitude is defined as a mental disposition with regard
to a fact or state (a helpful attitude) or a feeling
or emotion toward a fact or state.

. Sit up straight, listen, maintain a comfortable level of eye contact, take notes, and ask questions when the time is right. Speaking up in a meeting may be a challenge if another co-worker is more dominant or if you are unprepared. Click here to gain some tips on how to participate in meetings.

Learn work-related vocabulary.

Dress properly and maintain good personal hygiene for the job. Most businesses have a business casual dress code so employees may be comfortable while maintaining a professional image. Clothes you would wear to the beach or to work out in may be casual but are not professional and do not belong at work. It is never appropriatesuitable or fitting for a particular purpose, person,
occasion, etc. to be revealing. You should not show your back, stomach, cleavage, or undergarments. Clothes should be wrinkle free, clean, and without tear. T-shirts with messages are inappropriate, as they are unprofessional and may offend co-workers. Click here for more specific guidelines about what is appropriate to wear to work in several different work environments.

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