10

TLE
Quarter 3 – Agri-Crop Production
Module 6:
Workplace Professionalism

NegOr_Q3_Agri-CropProd10_Module6_v2
T L E– Grade 10-Agri-Crop Production
Alternative Delivery Mode
Quarter 3 – Module 6: Workplace Professionalism
Second Edition, 2021

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Published by the Department of Education

Secretary: Leonor Magtolis Briones
Undersecretary: Diosdado M. San Antonio

Development Team of the Module

Writers: Aiza M. Abingayan

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Department of Education –Region VII Schools Division of Negros Oriental

Office Address: Kagawasan, Ave., Daro, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental

Tele #: (035) 225 2376 / 541 1117
E-mail Address: negros.oriental@deped.gov.ph
Introductory Message
This Self-Learning Module (SLM) is prepared so that you, our
dear learners, can continue your studies and learn while at
home. Activities, questions, directions, exercises, and
discussions are carefully stated for you to understand each
lesson.
Each SLM is composed of different parts. Each part shall guide
you step-by-step as you discover and understand the lesson
prepared for you.
Pre-tests are provided to measure your prior knowledge on
lessons in each SLM. This will tell you if you need to proceed on
completing this module or if you need to ask your facilitator or
your teacher’s assistance for better understanding of the lesson.
At the end of each module, you need to answer the post-test to
self-check your learning. Answer keys are provided for each
activity and test. We trust that you will be honest in using these.
In addition to the material in the main text, Notes to the Teacher
are also provided to our facilitators and parents for strategies and
reminders on how they can best help you on your home-based
learning.
Please use this module with care. Do not put unnecessary marks
on any part of this SLM. Use a separate sheet of paper in
answering the exercises and tests. And read the instructions
carefully before performing each task.
If you have any questions in using this SLM or any difficulty in
answering the tasks in this module, do not hesitate to consult
your teacher or facilitator.
Thank you.

i
 What I Need to Know

This module was designed and written with you in mind. It is here to help
you master the nature of Agricultural Crop Production. The scope of this
module permits it to be used in many different learning situations. The
language used recognizes the diverse vocabulary level of students. The
lessons are arranged to follow the standard sequence of the course. But the
order in which you read them can be changed to correspond with the
textbook you are now using.

What I Know

Direction: Write TRUE if the statement is correct and write FALSE if it is

wrong. Write your answers in your notebook.
___________1. Wear protective equipment to suit the task.
___________2. Understanding the risks will keep you safe.
___________3. Use mechanical aids whenever possible.
___________4. A company's compliance officer generally is in charge of
supervising and handling issues related to compliance with laws or
regulations, including making sure that the company is up to date with its
licensing requirements.
___________5. Legal, moral and financial are three key reasons for managing
health and safety.

Lesson

1 Workplace Professionalism
Professionalism is the conduct, behavior and attitude of someone in a work
or business environment. A person doesn’t have to work in a specific
profession to demonstrate the important qualities and characteristics of a
professional. Professionalism leads to workplace success, a strong
professional reputation and a high level of work ethic and excellence.

In a recent study on Career Readiness conducted by NACE (National

Association of Colleges and Employers), employers who hire college
graduates were asked which professional competencies were essential to
workplace success. Professionalism/work ethic topped the list with 97.5%

1 NegOr_Q3_Agri-CropProd10_Module6_v2
of respondents identifying it as either ―absolutely essential‖ or ―essential‖ for
a new college hire’s success.

What’s In

Directions: Answer the following guide questions in your notebook.

1. What is professionalism to you?

2. How does professionalism work in a company?

What’s New

Direction: Write TRUE if the statement is correct, otherwise write FALSE if it

is wrong. Write your answers in your notebook.

_________1. A person doesn’t have to work in a specific profession to

demonstrate the important qualities and characteristics of a professional.
_________2. Professionalism leads to workplace success, a strong
professional reputation and a high level of work ethic and excellence.
_________3. Produce work and results that reflect a sense of pride and
professionalism, often exceeding expectations.
_________4. When you run into problems and obstacles take the time to
brainstorm a few solutions and alternatives before you meet with your
supervisor.
_________5. Practice professional on-line, in person and interpersonal
communication skills.

What is It

Professionalism in the Workplace

Professionalism is the conduct, behavior and attitude of someone in a work
or business environment. A person doesn’t have to work in a specific
profession to demonstrate the important qualities and characteristics of a
professional. Professionalism leads to workplace success, a strong
professional reputation and a high level of work ethic and excellence.

2 NegOr_Q3_Agri-CropProd10_Module6_v2
In a recent study on Career Readiness conducted by NACE (National
Association of Colleges and Employers), employers who hire college
graduates were asked which professional competencies were essential to
workplace success. Professionalism/work ethic topped the list with 97.5%
of respondents identifying it as either ―absolutely essential‖ or ―essential‖ for
a new college hire’s success.

Here are 12 ways you can develop and practice professionalism:

Be productive
Use your time productively at work. Focus on your job responsibilities and
avoid getting pulled into social media, web browsing and phone activity
while on the clock.

Develop a professional image

Project a professional presence and dress appropriately for your industry
and organization. A good rule of thumb is to dress in the position you
aspire to have.

Take the initiative

Ask for more projects to be given to you or think of assignments that will
meet your organization's goals. You don’t want to be under-utilized.

Maintain effective work habits

Prioritize, plan and manage your assignments and projects. Follow up and
follow through with your supervisor and team members.

Manage your time efficiently

Establish priorities, set goals and create action plans to meet deadlines.

Demonstrate integrity
Be accountable for your work and actions while behaving ethically at all
times.

Provide excellence
Produce work and results that reflect a sense of pride and professionalism,
often exceeding expectations.

Be a problem-solver
When you run into problems and obstacles take the time to brainstorm a
few solutions and alternatives before you meet with your supervisor.

Be resilient
Develop coping skills to manage setbacks and challenges with a positive and
constructive attitude.

3 NegOr_Q3_Agri-CropProd10_Module6_v2
Communicate effectively
Practice professional on-line, in person and interpersonal communication
skills.

Develop self-awareness
Learn to manage your emotions and gain awareness of your emotional
triggers so you can manage your reactions positively and productively.
Accept and reflect on feedback to assist as you learn and grow.

Build relationships
Network with colleagues, customers and clients to build professional cordial
relationships, work on teams and collaborate effectively.

Professionalism: Tips for Being Your Best on the Job

Good job skills are important for you to succeed in your career field. In
addition to your job skills, it’s also important to know how to act like a
professional when you’re on the job. What does it mean to act
professionally? Professionalism is a collection of many traits and behaviors.
With a little practice, you can learn what it means to be a profession. With
these tips, you should be well on your way to professional behavior.

8 tips for becoming more professional.

1. Show respect to others

Respecting others is one of the best ways to show professionalism. Respect
should be extended to everyone—your superiors, your co-workers, and those
who work below you. You also need to show respect for the people you serve.
If you are in a medical career, you need to respect your patients. If you are
in a role that serves customers, you should show your customers your
respect at all times, even if they are being difficult or demanding.
2. Learn to communicate effectively
Most disagreements and arguments begin with a lack of communication.
Good communication takes a little practice, but can save you from
misunderstandings. In your career, you will probably work with a team of
others. Whether you work as a medical assistant on a healthcare team, as a
technician with a crew of HVAC workers, or a bench technician in an IT
department, there will be others on your team. You need to be able to
communicate effectively with your team in order to keep things running
smoothly.
3. Be proactive

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Being proactive means anticipating needs before they arise. This is a great
trait of professionals. Rather than reacting to events and getting flustered,
you can try to anticipate what will happen and be prepared in advance.
Some ways to be proactive are to (1) arrive at work early to prepare for
what’s coming that day, (2) manage your time wisely so that you can
complete your responsibilities on time, (3) lend a hand to others when they
need extra help, and (4) suggestion solutions to problems to help make
things better for everyone.
4. Dress for success
Dressing appropriately for your job is important to how you are perceived.
You don’t have to spend a fortune on your wardrobe to dress professionally.
Choose clothing that flatters you. Choose clothing that is the right level of
dressiness for your career. And remember, thrift stores and consignment
shops can help you fill out your wardrobe without breaking the bank.
5. Don’t complain
All jobs have their pros and cons. Do your best to limit or eliminate your
complaining. No one wants to work with someone who complains all the
time. Instead of complaining, try to be a problem-solver who comes up with
solutions for the matters that are frustrating.
6. Practice your basic manners
A simple ―please,‖ ―thank you,‖ and ―excuse me‖ can go a long way to
showing that you are a professional. Politeness is a great antidote to
rudeness and can set a good tone for everyone around you. Taking the time
to think of others—whether it is holding a door or offering a hand—can earn
you a good deal of respect.
7. Keep learning
Most career fields are continuously evolving. There is always more to learn
about your field as new advances are made. Staying up-to-date shows that
you are someone who takes initiative. If you are knowledgeable about your
field, you can become a valued go-to person whom others trust.
8. Look up from your phone
People get so absorbed in their mobile devices that they forget to interact
with those in front of them. Show you are a professional by resisting the
temptation. Check your texts and email only a few times a day. Stay present
in what you are doing at the moment. And give your full attention to the
people around you.
Why Is Professionalism Important?
Professionalism is a seemingly vague term that you’ve never given much
thought to in the past. But now that you’re getting closer to launching a

5 NegOr_Q3_Agri-CropProd10_Module6_v2
professional career, however, this word has taken on a lot more significance.
You’re about to be on the hunt for a new job in your career field, and you’re
aware that professionalism is a trait manager will be looking for in your
interviews.
You know that professionalism matters, but you still have some questions
about this characteristic. Why is professionalism important, and what can
you do to be more professional?
We spoke with HR specialists and hiring managers to get the answers you’re
looking for. These experts are sharing their experiences from the opposite
side of the interview table, with insights on the importance of
professionalism and how to act in a professional manner as you enter the
workforce.
What is professionalism?
Simply put, professionalism is the way you conduct yourself at work to
represent both yourself and your company in a positive way. It includes
standards for behavior that might be mandated in an employee handbook,
like adhering to a certain dress code, as well as traits that are harder to pin
down but still valuable to being professional in the workplace.
Professionalism goes beyond a checklist of requirements. Instead, it includes
―embodying the company’s values and serving as a stellar representative of
the company,‖ according to Eric Mochnacz, HR consultant at Red Clover.
―Professionalism is someone’s inherent ability to do what is expected of them
and deliver quality work because they are driven to do so.‖
Professionalism also encompasses the way an employee interacts with other
people, including coworkers, customers and supervisors. ―Professionalism
includes speaking with your colleagues in a respectful manner, conducting
yourself with integrity and being courteous,‖ says Sarah Walker, HR
manager at Miracle Mile Law Group. ―This is absolutely important in the
workplace because it shows that you not only care about your career but
also that you respect your peers—this can go a long way in the future.‖
The Importance of Professionalism
The experts agree that professionalism is one of the biggest factors in your
level of career success. It might sound dramatic, but it’s true! This trait
affects every aspect of how you do your job. A lack of professionalism can
cost you a job or promotion, and it can even put you first in line for a layoff.
―Your level of professionalism can make or break your career,‖ Walker says.
―Without it, you will never be taken seriously and you may even be looked
over when it comes time to be considered for a promotion.‖
One reason professionalism is so important is because it’s an outward
display of your attitude toward your job and your company. ―It’s a sign of

6 NegOr_Q3_Agri-CropProd10_Module6_v2
loyalty, dependability and responsibility,‖ says Nate Masterson, HR manager
at Maple Holistics. ―A lack of professionalism suggests a lack of respect
towards an employer, which can impact your ability to land a job.‖
Signs of professionalism
It’s clear that professionalism is important, but what are the real-life signs of
professionalism employers are looking for? Our experts have shared the
examples of professionalism that are sure to catch their eye.
Appropriate attire
Like it or not, appearance plays a part in how others view you, and that
includes your level of professionalism. ―The way that you speak and dress
are both first-impression indicators of your professionalism,‖ Masterson
says. ―In an attempt to show potential employers that you have these
characteristics, you need to act and look the part.‖
Strong communication skills
Nearly every job requires employees to communicate with others through
writing and face-to-face. You can show off your communication skills by
preparing well for your interview so you appear calm rather than flustered.
―I’m looking for someone who is able to articulate themselves well,‖
Mochnacz says.
Ethical actions
―Being honest and ethical suggests professionalism,‖ Masterson says.
―Whether that’s clocking in honest hours of work or holding yourself
accountable for your mistakes, part of being professional means that you
abide by ethics both in and out of the office.‖ Sharing an example of a
mistake you made and what you did to correct it can show interviewers that
you operate within a strong code of ethics.
Calm under stress
Every job has its difficult moments. True professionals can handle issues
that crop up without causing a scene or complaining to coworkers.
―Professionalism is being able to handle yourself in a professional
environment,‖ Mochnacz says. ―You don’t lose your cool, you respond
appropriately even when the pressure is on, you’re mindful of your thoughts
and actions in front of the custodian and the CEO.‖
How to improve your professionalism?
Even if you don’t have much experience with professionalism yet, there are
many steps you can take to improve as you prepare to enter the workforce.
―Recent grads can brush up their professionalism by finding a mentor who
will lead by example,‖ Walker says.

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Events and conferences are another great place to practice professionalism.
You can use networking events to gain valuable experience putting your best
foot forward. They’re also an opportunity to observe how others behave in a
professional setting. Attend hiring events for practice displaying your
professionalism one-on-one. If you’re feeling bold, you can even ask the
connections you make whether they thought you acted in a professional
manner or whether there’s something you could do to improve.

Unprofessional Conduct in the Workplace

The workplace is supposed to be an ideal environment that needs to be
maintained and molded by employee professionalism and company policies.
Most individuals probably look forward in working in an environment that is
composed of professional and competitive staff. A positive working
environment promotes efficiency, productivity, performance, teamwork and
camaraderie. However, despite the effort of keeping the working environment
positive and conducive, there are still employers who are insensitive of their
conducts and behaviors in the workplace.
Examples of Unprofessional Conduct
Their unprofessional conduct starts to interfere with other workers
performance and worst; it can destroy ideal relationships established by
employers and employee. Any behavior or conduct that adversely affects the
ideal functioning of teams is considered to be unprofessional. The common
unprofessional conducts in the workplace are as follows:
1. Intimidation or bullying.
2. Sexual harassment.
3. Rude and loud comments.
4. Offensive and abusive language.
5. Persistent lateness in joining activities and attending meetings without
valid and reasonable cause.
6. Vexatious litigation, retribution, and violent threats.
7. Passive aggression like refusal of performing assigned task.
8. Demands for special attention and treatment.
9. Uncooperative behavior during regular activities.
10. Unwillingness to talk about issues and concerns with colleagues in
respectful and cordial manner.
11. Excessive criticisms.

Common Unprofessional Characteristics

Professionalism is not actually all about how you behave or how you look. It
is also about getting the job done right. It is therefore hard to tell that
someone is unprofessional by just merely depending on their looks and
actions. You can say that a person is unprofessional if he displays the
following conduct:

8 NegOr_Q3_Agri-CropProd10_Module6_v2
Missing Deadlines Often
It is really very unprofessional for an individual to miss and forget about
deadlines more often. Missed deadlines are sometimes due to poor
preparation and poor estimation of time. This unprofessional conduct must
be addressed as much as possible before these yields more serious negative
effects and outcomes.

Withholding Information
One is said to be unprofessional if he refuses to disclose conflicts and
withhold information that is essential to the effective functioning of teams or
organizations.

Being Disrespectful
This is another unprofessional conduct commonly observed in workplaces.
You are said to be disrespectful if you tend to do things and transactions
without prior consent from your superior. Respect is an essential element in
establishing strong and long-lasting relationship in the workplace.

Passing the Blame to Others

When you commit mistakes or you fail to do your job, it is unprofessional to
put the blame on others not unless you have solid evidences for your
allegations.

Other unprofessional conducts like plagiarizing and overstating experience

and qualifications and changing jobs frequently must be addressed properly.
Not maintaining proper grooming and professional appearance is also
another unprofessional conduct in the workplace.

What’s More

Direction: True or False. Write T if the statement is true and F if the

statement is wrong. Write your answers on your notebook.

_________1. Professionalism is not actually all about how you behave or how
you look. It is also about getting the job done right.
_________2. One is said to be unprofessional if he refuses to disclose
conflicts and withhold information that is essential to the effective
functioning of teams or organizations.
_________3. You are said to be disrespectful if you tend to do things and
transactions without prior consent from your superior.
_________4. Not maintaining proper grooming and professional appearance is
also another unprofessional conduct in the workplace.

9 NegOr_Q3_Agri-CropProd10_Module6_v2
_________5. Always look your best in the workplace, do your job with
diligence and professionalism and most importantly try your best not to
demonstrate unprofessional conduct in the workplace.

What I Have Learned

Write your personal insight of what you have learned from the lesson.
Answer the question below. Write your answer in your notebook.
Give 5 examples of professional traits and another 5 examples for
unprofessional traits?

________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________

What I Can Do

Direction: Answer the questions below and write this in your notebook.
What is unprofessional behavior in the workplace? How do you explain
professionalism?

________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________

10 NegOr_Q3_Agri-CropProd10_Module6_v2
 Assessment

Direction: Identification. Give the correct answer for each question.

Choose your answers from the box. Write your answers in your activity
notebook.

Be productive Take the initiative Demonstrate integrity

Provide excellence Be a problem-solver Be resilient
Develop self-awareness Build relationships Manage your time efficiently
Develop a professional image

_________1. Use your time productively at work. Focus on your job

responsibilities and avoid getting pulled into social media, web browsing and
phone activity while on the clock.
_________2. Ask for more projects to be given to you or think of assignments
that will meet your organization's goals. You don’t want to be under-
utilized.
_________3. Be accountable for your work and actions while behaving
ethically at all times.
_________4. Produce work and results that reflect a sense of pride and
professionalism, often exceeding expectations.
_________5. When you run into problems and obstacles take the time to
brainstorm a few solutions and alternatives before you meet with your
supervisor.
_________6. Develop coping skills to manage setbacks and challenges with a
positive and constructive attitude.
_________7. Learn to manage your emotions and gain awareness of your
emotional triggers so you can manage your reactions positively and
productively. Accept and reflect on feedback to assist as you learn and
grow.
_________8. Network with colleagues, customers and clients to build
professional cordial relationships, work on teams and collaborate effectively.
_________9. Establish priorities, set goals and create action plans to meet
deadlines.

11 NegOr_Q3_Agri-CropProd10_Module6_v2
_________10. Project a professional presence and dress appropriately for your
industry and organization. A good rule of thumb is to dress in the position
you aspire to have.

Answer Key

References
Brooks, Ashley. 2019. rasmussen.edu. August 19. Accessed January 12, 2022.
https://www.rasmussen.edu/student-experience/college-life/four-reasons-why-you-
need-to-be-professional/.
n.d. career.vt.edu. Accessed January 12, 2022.
https://career.vt.edu/develop/professionalism.html#:~:text=Professionalism%20is%20
the%20conduct%2C%20behavior,and%20characteristics%20of%20a%20professional
.

12 NegOr_Q3_Agri-CropProd10_Module6_v2
n.d. futureofworking.com. Accessed January 12, 2022.
https://futureofworking.com/unprofessional-conduct-in-the-workplace/.

13 NegOr_Q3_Agri-CropProd10_Module6_v2
For inquiries or feedback, please write or call:

Department of Education – Schools Division of Negros Oriental

Kagawasan, Avenue, Daro, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental

Tel #: (035) 225 2376 / 541 1117

Email Address: negros.oriental@deped.gov.ph
Website: lrmds.depednodis.net