Being professional at work is important! You are more likely to get and keep a job if you act, dress, and speak professionally.

Dressing professionally will:

• Make a positive first impression

• Show others that you take your job seriously

• Encourage you to be productive

How you dress professionally depends on workplace culture, and the job itself:

• If your job requires safety equipment (eg. construction) wear it properly.

• If you work in an office, have on a clean outfit and neat appearance.

• If you get messy at your job (eg. a cook) have a clean outfit for your next shift.

While at work avoid engaging with distractions. You're here to do your job and do it well.

Acting professionally will:

• Allow you to focus on doing a good job.

• Help your employer recognize your skills.

Speaking professionally is especially important in job interviews and before you fully know what the workplace conventions are at that particular job.

Speak professionally by:

• Avoiding slang or swear words.

• Using proper grammar.

• Saving non-work conversations for your break.

The halo effect is when we judge someone's personality based on one noticeable characteristic.

Watch the video for an example:

Use the halo effect to your advantage! Dressing, acting, and speaking professionally at work can all signal to others that you are competent at your job.

And so can you!