What word comes to mind when we think of ourselves and our careers in real estate? For me, the word professional is at the top of the list. But what really is a professional and what criteria makes one a professional? Words are powerful things. Finding the exact meaning of words that are used quite frequently has always been a way for me to learn and understand the correct application of a word. I started out by checking the definition at Dictionary.com:
"Professional: -noun
-a person who belongs to one of the professions, esp. one of the learned professions.
-a person who earns a living in a sport or other occupation frequently engaged in by amateurs: a golf professional.
-an expert player, as of golf or tennis, serving as a teacher, consultant, performer, or contestant; pro.
-a person who is expert at his or her work: You can tell by her comments that this editor is a real professional."
According to this definition there are other qualities that one must posses to be considered a professional. You must belong to a profession, be an expert, consultant, resource (teacher), and one who "earns a living in a(n)...occupation frequently engaged in by amateurs".
Here are the definitions of consultant, expert and resource.
- "Consultant: -noun 1. a person who gives professional or expert advice: a consultant on business methods.
2. a person who consults someone or something. - Expert: -noun 1. a person who has special skill or knowledge in some particular field; specialist; authority
- Resource: -noun 1. a source of supply, support, or aid, esp. one that can be readily drawn upon when needed."
Being a professional is not just about putting on a nice suit, looking good and talking the lingo. The true root of being professional is about using the knowledge that we have, always looking to gain more knowledge, helping others to hone their professional skills and being a resource to those around us. When we are true professionals, it is not hard to find value in one's services.
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