Professionalism (part 1)

Maybe I'm just a stick in the mud, but I believe in a high level of professionalism in many things that we do.

One may think "Oh this is just a simple meeting held by students, there's no need to be professional." Uhhh nooo. I'm sorry you did not get the memo, but yes, there still is a need to be professional. As a university student, correct me if I am wrong, you are preparing yourself for the workplace and the world. It is here that one must inculcate good practices in oneself to bring to the workplace.

Growing up in the Caribbean I heard "There's a time and place for everything" so many times that it has become a part of who I am. I love to laugh and give and receive good hearty jokes, but in the middle of a meeting when people are trying to discussion issues and make progress? I'll pass. People are extremely busy and time belongs to no one. Hence, I shall not want to waste the borrowed time of someone else, nor do I want my borrowed time to be wasted.

Now, I must add that not every meeting requires a high level of professionalism. Professionalism varies and can be gauged depending on the physical setting, and the purpose of the meeting among other factors. One must use his/her discretion to decide what level and type of professionalism is needed.

So, the next time you're at a meeting, think before you speak.