What is professionalism? According to many sources across the web, professionalism can best be defined as an individual’s conduct in the workplace.

Why is it important? In order for any business to succeed, employees need to keep professionalism a top priority because it reflects on the overall brand, experience, customer relationships and much more.

To ensure you put your best self forward each and every day, here are 6 ways you can practice professionalism:

1. Communicate with your peers in a professional manner

How you interact with your co-workers, clients and management will show how effective you are in a team setting. Be kind, courteous, and professional in meetings, emails, phone calls, etc.

2. Remember to use your manners

Professional etiquette shows your character as a person and what type of professional you want others to see you as. Make sure you turn your phone on silent during a meeting. There is nothing more unprofessional than a client, supervisor or co-worker not having your undivided attention at a planned meeting.

3. Dress appropriately

Know the dress code policy where you work and make sure to stick to it. Show up to work everyday proud of who are and be confident. Nobody wants to walk into any establishment and see staff who look like they have just rolled out of bed and raced to work.

4. Keep your personal life and work life separate.

As a professional employee, it’s your responsibility to establish boundaries between your personal matters and your work matters. Minimize personal phone calls and refrain from discussing personal problems at work.

5. Be reliable, punctual, work efficiently and meet your deadlines.

Being committed and working hard will take you where you want to be in the company you have chosen to work for.

6. Always be positive

Be humble and grateful that you got chosen for that position. Contribute to a healthy and happy work environment by being encouraging and positive with your team.

Remember, there can be 100 applicants with the same credentials and qualifications as you who applied for your position, but your presentation, character and professionalism are what will set you apart from those other 99 applicants. Remember to use these tips daily to show the organization you work for that you appreciate your position and stand behind their vision and values.