Which of the following is one of the five major characteristics of professionals?

journal article

Journal of Health and Social Behavior

Vol. 10, No. 1 (Mar., 1969)

, pp. 3-15 (13 pages)

Published By: American Sociological Association

https://doi.org/10.2307/2948501

https://www.jstor.org/stable/2948501

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Abstract

Based upon a series of previous studies and ongoing research in three different organizations, this paper argues that bureaucratic theory is of limited value in the analysis of professional organizations. Professionals create their own distinctive social organization within a larger organization. A language of political process--emphasizing negotiation and shifting alliances--is more relevant to understanding such organizations.

Journal Information

Journal of Health and Social Behavior (JHSB) publishes articles that apply sociological concepts and methods to the understanding of health, illness, and medicine in their social context. Its editorial policy favors those manuscripts that build and test knowledge in medical sociology, that show stimulating scholarship and clarity of expression, and which, taken together, reflect the breadth of interests of its readership. Published quarterly in March, June, September, and December.

Publisher Information

American Sociological Association Mission Statement: Serving Sociologists in Their Work Advancing Sociology as a Science and Profession Promoting the Contributions and Use of Sociology to Society The American Sociological Association (ASA), founded in 1905, is a non-profit membership association dedicated to advancing sociology as a scientific discipline and profession serving the public good. With over 13,200 members, ASA encompasses sociologists who are faculty members at colleges and universities, researchers, practitioners, and students. About 20 percent of the members work in government, business, or non-profit organizations. As the national organization for sociologists, the American Sociological Association, through its Executive Office, is well positioned to provide a unique set of services to its members and to promote the vitality, visibility, and diversity of the discipline. Working at the national and international levels, the Association aims to articulate policy and impleme nt programs likely to have the broadest possible impact for sociology now and in the future.

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Being a professional in your chosen field means much more than wearing a coat and tie or possessing a college degree and a noted title. Professionalism also has to do with how you conduct yourself during your business affairs. True professionals possess a number of important characteristics that can apply to virtually any type of business.

Dress for Success

A professional is neat in appearance. Be sure to meet or even exceed the requirements of your company's dress code, and pay special attention to your appearance when meeting with prospects or clients. Even if your workplace tends towards the casual, strive for snappy casual rather than sloppy casual. Keep something a bit dressier handy in case the big boss or an important client happens by.

Confident, Not Cocky

Your demeanor should exude confidence but not cockiness. Be polite and well-spoken whether you're interacting with customers, superiors or co-workers. You need to keep your calm, even during tense situations. Your body language and facial expressions communicate volumes, so be sure they are conveying the message you want others to hear.

Do What You Say You Will Do

As a professional, you will be counted on to find a way to get the job done. Responding to people promptly and following through on promises in a timely manner is also important, as this demonstrates reliability. Be at work on time, start meetings on time and follow through on all your commitments.

Be an Expert in Your Field

Professionals strive to become experts in their field, which sets them apart from the rest of the pack. This can mean continuing your education by taking courses, attending seminars and attaining any related professional designations. A broad set of skills, from mastering software to clearing jams from the copying machine, adds to the sense that you're an indispensable member of the team.

Behave Morally and Ethically

Professionals such as doctors, lawyers and public accountants must adhere to a strict code of ethics. Even if your company or industry doesn't have a written code, you should display ethical behavior at all times. It's not just a matter of the #MeToo movement; extend professional, respectful, appropriate behavior to everyone you do business with and in every situation you find yourself in.

Maintain Your Poise

A professional must maintain his poise even when facing a difficult situation. For example, if a colleague or client treats you in a belligerent manner, you should not resort to the same type of behavior.

Have Good Phone Etiquette

Your phone etiquette is also an important component of professional behavior. This means identifying yourself by your full name, company and title when you place a call. Be sure not to dominate the conversation and listen intently to the other party. Return calls in a timely manner and follow-up on any actions you agree to during a conversation.

Strike the Right Tone

During written correspondence, keep your letters brief and to the point. Your tone should be polite and formal without being "stuffy." This also applies to email correspondence.

Be Structured and Organized

A professional can quickly and easily find what is needed. Your work area should be neat and organized, and your briefcase should contain only what is needed for your appointment or presentation. Few things say "unprofessional" as quickly as a hopelessly cluttered, messy work area.

Own Up to Mistakes

Professionals are accountable for their actions at all times. If you make a mistake, own up to it and try to fix it if possible. Don't try to place the blame on a colleague. If your company made the mistake, take responsibility and work to resolve the issue.

Which of the following terms is defined as a social institution through which power is acquired and exercised by some people in groups?

Which of the following terms refers to power that people accept as legitimate rather than coercive?

Which of the following terms refers to a situation that occurs when four or fewer companies supply 50% or more of a particular market?