Bid Report

Professionalism The Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary defines professionalism as the conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize or mark a profession or a professional person. Yet the White Paper on Pharmacy Student Professionalism says it is displaying values, beliefs and attitudes that put the needs of another about your personal needs. There is still another definition. The Medical Professionalism Project says professionalism is the basis of medicine's contract with society. It demands placing the interests of patients above those of the physician, setting and maintaining standards of competence and integrity, and providing expert advice to society on matters of health.

Professionalism is a set of behaviors that includes a particular way of speaking, writing, behaving, dressing, and acting. It is somewhat formal, perhaps slightly reserved and neutral. It does not have to be altogether sober or somber. Includes actions such as, accomplishes tasks or negotiates for more time. Is on time or has called ahead. Has done "homework" for meetings.

Unprofessional behavior: very informal, casual, slangy speech, not accomplishing tasks at work. Also popping/chewing gum, sitting on a desk and swinging your legs, grabbing something from someone, interrupting someone, yelling, being too personal in conversation (if someone doesn't feel good saying "what's wrong?" when it's none of your business), not meeting deadlines, gossip, flirting, modes of dress depending on the corporate culture, burping out loud, poor table manners.

Unprof. Example: Leslie is in a business conversation with a coworker when Dana comes rushing over and interrupts, saying "That new hire is hot! Woohoo!" and pops gum, while letting the telephone ring unanswered.

Prof. Example: Leslie sees a coworker Dell, in the hall leaning against the wall, not feeling well. Leslie says, "Let me take you to lie down." Takes Dell to room to lie down, asks if there is anyone to call, or any specific need. If not, leaves and calls the company nurse and makes sure nurse will check on Dell. May check in with Dell or the nurse later on, to be sure all is ok.

Does not ask sick person what the problem is and does not gossip about the event.

Many practitioners are concerned about the standard of training for interpretation and currently attach more importance to work experience. Practitioners feel inadequately trained in some aspects of their work, such as project management, with isolation and lone working contributing to the problem. Many have difficulty keeping up with new technology and current thinking and find little opportunity for mid-career training to improve this situation. Education, training and professional development are all believed to strengthen interpretation as a profession and contribute to a reliable quality of output.