Term Two, PROFF CPD point lecture -Casework module

Presenter: Hayley Ellis (Careers Coach)

Aim: To recognise the value of professionalism in career management.
Objectives:
- Understand the term professionalism.
- Reflect on its relevance to you.
- Recognise when and how it can be demonstrated.
- Gain familiarity with how you can build your professionalism and understanding of workplace etiquette.

Definition: "The conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize or mark a profession or a professional person."
- Source: Merriam-Webster.
- Context: Professionalism includes guidance for ethical and professional behaviour, particularly in fields such as policing, as noted by the College of Policing.

Impacts:
- It can take you places or cost you your dream job.
- It affects the first impression others have of you.
- Influences interpersonal relationships.
- Contributes to your overall reputation.

General Workplace Etiquette:
- Follow organizational codes of behaviour.
- Adhere to professional standards set by regulatory bodies.
- Example: Course accreditation, Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences 2024.
- Continuous Professional Development (CPD):
- Definition: "The process through which an individual maintains and extends the knowledge and skills necessary for lifelong professional competence."
- Source: Science Councils Continuing Professional Development Standards.

Responsibilities:
- Act diligently and efficiently.
- Be conscientious and thorough in your work.
- Take ownership in resolving problems.
- Abide by instructions, policies, and procedures set by the police service.
- Maintain punctuality and a professional appearance.
- Source: 2024 Policing Code-of-Ethics.

Creating a Strong First Impression:
- Dress professionally.
- Mind your body language (i.e., smile).
Effective Communication:
- Prepare a strong elevator pitch.
- Show curiosity by asking questions.
- Exhibit enthusiasm.
- Follow-up interactions to reinforce connections.

Wardrobe Assistance:
- NTU provides free and sustainable professional clothing options designed to ensure you make the best first impression.
- Keywords: DRESS. IMPRESS. SUCCESS.

Effective Communication Across Platforms:
- Proofread all material before posting.
- Ensure consistency across all social media platforms.
- Curate who you follow to reflect your professional interests.
- Post and respond constructively to followers.
- Actively manage your professional connections.
Self-Check:
- Have you assessed your social media accounts for professionalism recently?

Communication:
- Efficient communication through e-mails and meetings.
- Functioning well in team settings.
Work Efficiency:
- Show enthusiasm and be an ambassador for both yourself and your company.
- Identify problems and generate viable solutions.
- Complete assignments as promised.
- Engage in continuous professional development opportunities.

Examples of Demonstrated Professionalism:
- Part-time work experiences.
- Volunteering activities.
- Work experience narratives.
- Academic interactions with tutors.
- Relations with visiting employers during events at NTU.

Managed Relationships:
- Maintained professional relationships with tutors, module leaders, and course leaders.
Effective Communication:
- Communicated effectively through lab reports, assignments, projects, and presentations.
Independent Research:
- Conducted independent research for assignments and projects.
Timeliness:
- Met multiple assignment deadlines consistently.
Engagement:
- Asked questions and critically reflected on coursework and employability activities.

Situation: Feeling bored after 3 months in a role with limited opportunities.
Advice:
- Consider being proactive in seeking additional responsibilities.
- Acknowledge that finding new jobs is often easier while employed.
- Evaluate if it's worth waiting longer or if other opportunities may be better.

Situation: Experiencing difficulties in meeting high expectations at placement or graduate roles.
Advice:
- Communicate openly with your line manager about challenges.
- Ask for clarity on specific tasks.
- Explore available professional development resources.
- Seek positive viewpoints and consider peer support.

Situation: Feeling uncomfortable due to a co-worker’s inappropriate jokes.
Advice:
- Inform the colleague that their comments are affecting you negatively.
- Identify and utilize available support resources.
- If issues persist, escalate the situation to HR.

Concern: Uncertainty about when to inform an employer about anxiety affecting performance.

Disability Support:
- Services include a Disability & the Workplace certificate, specialized event support, a dedicated careers consultant, and exclusive employability partnerships.

Mini-Programme: "Preparing for the Workplace" includes resources and support for placements, internships, and job readiness:
- LinkedIn Learning.
- Placement health and safety modules.

Available Support:
- Assistance with CVs, cover letters, applications, and interview preparation.
- Provides career guidance and job searching options.
- Assists in exploring career ideas and developing employability skills.

Suggestions for goals based on session insights:
- Perform an audit of your online presence.
- Review relevant professional codes of ethics.
- Collect examples to substantiate your professionalism.
- Engage in an NTU award program.

Thank You & Questions:
- Follow-up contact: Hayley.Ellis@ntu.ac.uk
- Encourage feedback on the session at the provided link.