What is a professional image?
Laura Morgan Roberts: Your professional image is the set of qualities and characteristics that represent perceptions of your competence and character as judged by your key constituents (i.e., clients, superiors, subordinates, colleagues). Q: What is the difference between “desired professional image” and “perceived professional image?” A: It is important to distinguish between the image you want others to have of you and the image that you think people currently have of you. Most people want to be described as technically competent, socially skilled, of strong character and integrity, and committed to your work, your team, and your company. Research shows that the most favorably regarded traits are trustworthiness, caring, humility, and capability. Ask yourself the question: What do I want my key constituents to say about me when I’m not in the room? This description is your desired professional image. Likewise, you might ask yourself the question: What am I concerned that my key const
