How to Guard Your Professional Reputation

One of the most compelling lessons you can learn in life is to guard your reputation. It is present wherever you go—at home and in the office. How you do your job and interact with co-workers and bosses will characterize and label your professional reputation. Take a moment to consider this short inventory of professional reputation traits by answering these five questions.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 

   Do you grumble and complain about the quantity of work you have to do, or do you willingly and readily accept any additions?

2. 

   Do you constantly point out the flaws and weaknesses of co-workers or do you find ways to recognize their strengths and contributions? There are many things about our individual personalities and behavior that are unknown to us. We can’t see these positive characteristics nor can we see the negative flaws. Other people can see them however and form opinions—good or bad—about us as a result. Business reputation is developed as a result.

3. 

   Do you go out of your way to help others meet tight deadlines or do you pat yourself on the back and say, “At least I’m finished my work”? What you have or have not done to facilitate and brighten the life of others is a clue to your business reputation and the esteem in which you are held.

4. 

   Are you argumentative or constantly in a bad mood, or are you pleasant to be around? People tend to make up their minds about each other based on what they see and hear.

5. 

   Do you stand up for what is ethically and morally right or do you let unethical practices slide and ignore wrongdoing? Character is the makeup of your moral fiber and is extremely important to every business professional.

Tips & Warnings

• If your answers to these questions cause you to have even more questions, don’t be discouraged. Your reputation—whether on the job or in general is a lifelong process. The good news is that you can make whatever changes you deem necessary to correct or enhance it.
• Use the resources below to enhance your reputation as a career professional.

Resources

• Answers to Your Questions about Job & Career
• Enhance Your Professional Reputation

[wjackson]

on 6/17/2008 This should be posted at every workplace! Great!

[bront3]

on 6/17/2008 Good article!