Category: Self

Competency: Displaying Professionalism

Competency Definition: The ability to uphold workplace standards through consistent conduct, responsible communication, and consideration for others.

Abbreviation in Louisiana Jobs: DPf - 26


Displaying Professionalism

Competency Behaviors: Specific, observable actions demonstrating the competency

Forming


Struggles to demonstrate the competency; needs guidance and practice.
  • Misses deadlines or delivers incomplete work, creating reliability concerns
  • Uses language that is disorganized or poorly tailored to the audience, which hinders understanding or erodes credibility
  • Makes decisions or behaves in ways that conflict with ethical expectations or policy
  • Avoids taking ownership of actions or follow-through on responsibilities
  • Wears attire or behaves in ways that do not reflect workplace norms or expectations
  • Interacts in ways that come across as dismissive or unaware of others’ perspectives

Improving


Shows growth and increasing confidence but not yet consistently independent

Successful


Demonstrates the competency independently and reliably in routine situations
  • Meets deadlines and delivers complete, quality work that fulfills commitments
  • Communicates in a way that promotes understanding and aligns tone and language with the audience and context
  • Follows workplace ethics and policies; is honest and transparent in actions
  • Takes responsibility for work and reliably follows through on assigned tasks
  • Maintains appearance and behavior that reflect workplace standards and organizational values
  • Uses constructive communication to support collaboration and strengthen professional relationships

Exceeds


Applies the competency independently in challenging or high-impact situations, adding value or insight

Exceptional


Demonstrates subject-matter expertise, serves as a role model, and elevates standards.
  • Anticipates needs, adapts under pressure, and delivers high-quality work that exceeds expectations without compromising quality
  • Chooses words and tone carefully in diverse or sensitive situations; builds trust by presenting information in a way that supports understanding
  • Upholds and advocates for high ethical standards; models fairness and integrity even under pressure
  • Proactively manages responsibilities and communicates barriers early; maintains credibility through accountability
  • Represents the organization positively through polished, confident behavior; sets a respectful tone for others
  • Demonstrates emotional intelligence; responds with composure and empathy in high-pressure or sensitive interactions