Authored by: Elona Ellis, Career Coach for Technology, Data, & Analytics
Why Professionalism Matters
Professionalism encompasses a range of behaviors and traits, including dependability, ethical integrity, effective communication, respect for others, and a commitment to excellence. Professionalism is one of the most critical career readiness competencies valued by employers across all industries. Although it is highly valued, research indicates a significant disconnect between what employers expect and what new professionals demonstrate in the workplace.
According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 86.9% of employers rate professionalism and work ethic as a top priority when evaluating job candidates. However, only 44.2% of employers believe that new graduates demonstrate proficiency in this area, revealing a substantial 42.7% gap between importance and observed performance.
The disparity in professionalism is among the most concerning of the career competencies, as it is foundational to workplace success. A lack of professionalism can hinder team dynamics, affect productivity, and ultimately influence long-term career growth and retention.
What Employers Are Seeing (The Good)
- Polished communication skills, including active listening and clear articulation.
- Positive attitude and resilience, especially in fast-paced or uncertain work environments.
- Strong technology fluency, which has improved with the rise of virtual learning and remote work.
- Commitment to workplace belonging.
What Employers Are Seeing (The Bad)
According to data collected by York College’s Center for Professional Excellence, the most frequently cited issues include:
- Inappropriate use of technology, such as texting during meetings or excessive social media use during work hours.
- Lack of initiative or follow-through
- Disrespectful or entitled attitudes, including a disregard for hierarchy or feedback.
- Unprofessional appearance or attire
- Challenges with punctuality, accountability, and attention to detail.
In some cases, new professionals struggle with adjusting to the expectations of a full-time work environment. Especially for individuals transitioning from academic or part-time backgrounds where feedback and performance measures are more flexible.
Mismatch Between Expectation and Reality
One of the more significant findings from both the NACE reports and employer surveys is the perception gap. While students and young professionals may believe they are prepared for the workforce, employers often disagree. For instance, many college graduates report confidence in their professionalism skills; however, employers see a lack of real-world application, especially in scenarios requiring conflict resolution, time management, or emotional intelligence.
This disconnect may be fueled by a lack of clear, consistent messaging during the transition from education to employment. Students are often evaluated in academic settings based on individual performance or written assignments, while employers prioritize collaborative work, adaptability, and interpersonal dynamics.
The Role of Respect, Communication, and Culture
Recent workplace research from Gallup shows that only 37% of U.S. employees strongly agree that they are treated with respect at work. This is a record low since tracking began in 2018. This trend has serious implications for organizational culture, morale, and employee retention. A respectful workplace is foundational to professionalism, and when it is lacking, employees may disengage or leave entirely.
In addition to respect, communication and transparency remain essential components of professionalism. A recent Harris Poll study found that 96% of job seekers value honesty from their managers. This demand for open dialogue highlights a broader shift in workplace culture, where employees expect reciprocal professionalism from leadership, not just top-down enforcement of rules.
Future Recommendations
To bridge the gap in professionalism, colleges, career centers, and employers must work together to reinforce what professionalism looks like in different settings. This includes:
- Offering real-time, scenario-based training on professionalism and etiquette.
- Clarifying expectations during onboarding and orientation.
- Providing mentorship and feedback in early career stages.
- Encouraging accountability and reflection among emerging professionals.
Employers must exemplify professionalism and create safe spaces for learning, feedback, and mutual respect can go a long way in improving professional behavior across the board.
References:
National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE)
NACE. (2022). Job Outlook 2022: Employers prioritize professionalism and work ethic.
Retrieved from: https://www.naceweb.org/career-readiness/competencies/competencies-employers-weigh-importance-versus-new-grad-proficiency
NACE. (2023). The gap in perceptions of new grads’ competency proficiency—and resources to shrink it.
Retrieved from: https://www.naceweb.org/career-readiness/competencies/the-gap-in-perceptions-of-new-grads-competency-proficiency-and-resources-to-shrink-it
York College – Center for Professional Excellence
Earles, J., & Ryan, K. (2013). Professionalism in the workplace: What do employers want?
Retrieved from: https://wac.colostate.edu/docs/wln/dec1/EarlesRyanYork2.pdf
Gallup
Gallup. (2024). Respect at work returns to record low.
Retrieved from: https://www.gallup.com/workplace/655040/respect-work-returns-record-low.aspx
Harris Poll & Express Employment Professionals
PR Newswire. (2024). 96% of job seekers say honesty is a must from new managers.
Retrieved from: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/open-dialogue-a-must-96-of-job-seekers-demand-honesty-from-new-managers-302244086.html
Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA)
SOCRA. (2020). Creating a professional workplace.
Retrieved from: https://www.socra.org/blog/creating-a-professional-workplace