Professional: To Be or Not To Be...

I was watching this young lady on a popular Judge show the other day and I couldn't help but be taken back at what I saw! She claimed to be a professional and had built a case against her former employer for wrongful termination. The kicker, however, was that she was in court dressed very provocatively, speaking out of turn and displayed some very disruptive non-verbal behavior. Needless to say, her case was dismissed but I began to think to myself, "Is this what passes as professionalism these days?" At what point did the term professionalism become so loosely interpreted? Sure, I've come across people who truly understand what business etiquette means, but I have also seen far too many who have been robbed of that understanding. We need to get back to the basics and help our youth understand that there is a sense of pride that connects with the title of "Professional." It has to start with parents and it must continue with our educators, mentors, business owners and community leaders. We lead by example so let's make sure the next generation doesn't chew gum at an interview, roll their eyes at paying requests or reveal all their glory on a national court show! Anything you want to add? Speak!