On The Job: From Paper To Pro Page 4

Deb Shinder

Building and Maintaining a Professional Image

What, besides experience, distinguishes a “professional” from a
“paper” certification? One of the most important factors is the image
you project. I have taught many MCSE classes and have seen many students venture
out into the IT workplace. The piece of paper they have is the same – but
there are some glaring differences between those who succeed in quickly getting
a job and getting subsequent promotions, and those who don’t.

Most of it boils down to the image you project to a potential employer. Ask
yourself these questions:

• Do you come across as
  someone who is easy to get along with, or do others see you as whining,
  demanding, and/or self-absorbed?

• Do you focus in job
  interviews on what you can do for the company, or is every
  question you ask concerned with how the company will benefit you?

• Do you project a professional
  image?

What are the elements of a professional image, you ask? Interestingly, it’s
often the little things that count, that brand you as a pro – or not. Just a
few things that I, as a hiring authority, see as important in a candidate I’m
considering for a position include:

• Your Language and
  Demeanor

• Your Professional
  Presentation