Disadvantages of Professionalism

It may be hard to imagine how professional-ism is a disadvantage in any capacity, but there are times when adhering to such high standards can work against an intended objective. While the tenets of professionalism -- which include behavior, integrity and accountability -- remain intact, the stringency associated with such a demanding combination may need some adjustment in order to realize a more positive outcome. The key is to remember that professionalism does not always equate to quality standards.


The Price of Professionalism
Maintaining professional standards is a costly venture when, for example, companies are compelled to provide their workers with continuing education to maintain the desired level of professionalism. Moreover, recruiting new talent may cost the company more in its ongoing quest to uphold such a strict standard; hiring an established professional can be a smarter financial decision than molding a newcomer.

Undue Tension
Leniency allows for certain situations to be addressed more suitably for the circumstances; adhering to a strict professional policy for the sake of compliance can create tension where it doesn't have to exist. Whether mandated to follow rigid dress codes, interpersonal relations or decorum, employees may feel so constrained by such stringency that the work environment becomes staid and dispiriting.

Tempered Talent
The steadfast attributes typically associated with professionalism can restrict environments that have a more creative atmosphere. The greater ingenuity and inspiration required in the workplace, the less need for unnatural restrictions in order to cultivate creativity. Advertising companies, for example, do well to employ a more casual, free-flowing approach to their professional standards, one that still emphasizes appropriate business behavior, integrity and accountability but with more flexibility.

Subjectivity
The notion of professionalism means different things to different people, which may lead one department's policy to significantly deviate from another. This lack of consistency can create an undercurrent of confusion and mixed signals when employees within the same company are not outfitted with a corresponding standard. Moreover, efforts to maintain a specific level of professionalism via micromanaging can stymie employee ingenuity and overall productivity.

Originally written for and published by Demand Media.