Development of Your Professional Self

Carol Britton Laws, MSW

Professionals have a body of knowledge

scope of practiceagreed upon valuesoath or code and accountability to our society

for our profession and our professional behavior.

What is a Professional?

What is Professionalism?Describes a certain type of

behavior in the workplaceBased on our values and

understanding of our professional roles

Evidenced in our behavior

How is Professionalism Judged?Against a set of

expectations or standardsFrom our own personal

values set and understanding of what “professionalism” means

May be situational in nature

Strongly influenced by culture

Professionalism is in the eye of the beholder…

Professionalism is Determined By:Our ImageOur CommunicationOur CompetenceOur Demeanor

From the Client’s PerspectiveTrustworthyCompetentEmpatheticRespectfulCaring

Unprofessional Behavior - Clients

Non-therapeutic relationshipsInappropriate communicationInappropriate self-disclosureExploitation – money, giftsBreaches of confidentiality

From the Co-Workers PerspectiveTrustworthyCompetentSupportiveRespectfulAccountable

Unprofessional Behavior - Coworkers

Inappropriate relationshipsDisengagement – texting,

inappropriate use of internet, phoning

Provision of misleading information

Disrespect

Qualities and Characteristics of a Professional Social Worker

CompetentTrustworthyRespectfulAct with

IntegrityConsiderateEmpathetic

CourteousDependabl

eCooperativ

eCommitted

Getting There – 6 Phases ExpectationRevelationRefutationNegotiationAdaptationAffirmation

Always do your best. What you plant now, you will harvest later.

Og Mandino