Development of Your Professional Self

Carol Britton Laws, MSW

What is a Professional?
Professionals have a body of knowledge
scope of practice
agreed upon values
oath or code
and accountability to our society for our
profession and our professional behavior.
What is Professionalism?
Describes a certain type of behavior in
the workplace
Based on our values and understanding
of our professional roles
Evidenced in our behavior
How is Professionalism Judged?
Against a set of expectations or
standards
From 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 Image
Our Communication
Our Competence
Our Demeanor
From the Clients Perspective
Trustworthy
Competent
Empathetic
Respectful
Caring
Unprofessional Behavior - Clients

Non-therapeutic relationships
Inappropriate communication
Inappropriate self-disclosure
Exploitation money, gifts
Breaches of confidentiality
From the Co-Workers Perspective
Trustworthy
Competent
Supportive
Respectful
Accountable
Unprofessional Behavior - Coworkers

Inappropriate relationships
Disengagement texting, inappropriate
use of internet, phoning
Provision of misleading information
Disrespect
Qualities and Characteristics of a
Professional Social Worker
Competent Courteous
Trustworthy Dependable
Respectful Cooperative
Act with Committed
Integrity
Considerate
Empathetic
Getting There 6 Phases
Expectation
Revelation
Refutation
Negotiation
Adaptation
Affirmation
 Always do your best.
What you plant now, you will harvest later.
Og Mandino