How to Earn Respect at Work as a Young Professional

Outfit Details: Dress

At the age of twenty-three I started my first real profession as an educator. At the age of twenty-six I graduated with my Masters in Educational Leadership (A.K.A Administration). In my short years of teaching I have managed to plan and host numerous community projects and serve in different leadership roles. I don’t say this to boast my accomplishments. I say it, because at a young age I took my God given talents and aspirations to make moves and build the person that I am today. As a young professional, some people doubt your professional motives, your understanding of knowledge, and your lack of experience. I know it can be frustrating when you meet people who try to belittle you, because to them you are younger and you are not experienced. I’ve been there and it feels ugly, but I have also allowed times like that to challenge my goals and ambitions I have as an educator. Whether we like it or not, there are some people out there who are intimated by you and what you bring to the table. Don’t let people like that discourage you or keep you from chasing your goals. Now, I can’t say everyone thinks that way. I have met and work with incredible people who have helped me become the respected young professional that I am today, and for that I am thankful. Therefore, how can you earn respect at work as a young professional?

Take Initiative

You know how that saying goes, “the early bird gets the worm.” Don’t wait for opportunities to knock on your door, you need to go out and chase them or make them.

Be Confident, but not Cocky

Know how to approach circumstances with poise and expect success. Don’t doubt your knowledge and most importantly don’t stress yourself out. Most of the time you know what should or needs to be done, so do it.

Communicate

This is a HUGE part, professionally. Without communication, you won’t go very far. It is important to always stay in the loop and inform others of any agreements or disagreements you may have. Of course, we must remember to compose ourselves when we do have disagreements. I have seen so many people fail in leadership roles, because their lack of communication.

Use “We” More and “I” Less

Remember that everything you do at work should be for the best interest of your clients, students, or community, and not yourself. No one wants to respect an arrogant omniscient person. Always make it about “WE.”

Collaboration

Sharing and planning new initiatives with your co-workers can build trust and creditability.

Listen

At times, we get so caught up with trying to relate to a person or give advice, but sometimes we just need to shut up and listen. After taking a course over listening skills during grad school, I learned that more people felt comfortable at work to come vent to me, because I did just that.

Get Involved

Most of times I got involved by organizing or hosting community projects and No it wasn’t for my resume. I have always been the type of person that likes to give and I also know how important it is to demonstrate good morals for my students so that one day they learn to give back as an adult. My advice to you, is get yourself involve with tasks, projects, or community efforts that will benefit others. Trust me, it is a lot more rewarding when you make a difference to someone else.

Display Good Body Language

Sit straight and stand tall. Whenever you take on presentations or simply having conversation, always carry good body language. This itself makes a difference in what you say.

Be Knowledgeable of your Profession

Be Knowledgeable of your ProfessionEducate yourself with any new initiatives that are taking place. People will more likely listen to your suggestions and opinions when you are knowledgeable. With that knowledge, remember to make fair judgment calls for the best interest of your clients, students, or community

Own Up to your Mistakes

I think this one in general is hard on every one. Nobody likes to be wrong or admit to their mistakes, but you will be far more respected than those who don’t.

Outfit Details:

Green Lace dress (Found mine at Burlington for $15, say what?!)

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God Bless You!

♥ Robin

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,

Philippians 2:3

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