10 Things True Professionals Do Way Differently Than Amateurs

10 Things True Professionals Do Way Differently Than Amateurs

There are certain tips and tricks that professionals have that make them amazing at what they do and come only with experience. While amateurs might overreact, underprepare, or make other missteps along the way, true professionals practice the following habits to stay on the top of their game.

1. They Don’t Freak Out Over a Mistake.

colleagues having a heated discussion during meeting

Professionals are the kind who, when they mess up, don’t try to brush it under the rug. They’re like, “Yep, my bad,” learn from it, and just keep rolling. They know everyone trips up sometimes and that’s cool – it’s part of growing. This chill attitude towards mistakes sets them apart from amateurs who might waste time covering them up instead of learning from them.

2. They’re Always in the Know.

millennial woman working at laptop

Professionals are always brushing up on what’s new in their field. It’s not about geeking out on every little detail, but staying sharp and in the loop. They’re into learning new stuff, catching up on the latest trends, and keeping their skills fresh. This love for staying updated is what keeps them a step ahead, unlike amateurs who might not be as keen on constantly leveling up their game.

3. They Really Value Everyone’s Time.

man shouting at business meeting

For true pros, being on time and managing their schedule is a big deal. They respect their own time and, more so, other people’s time. Whether it’s meetings, deadlines, or just regular catch-ups, they’re on it. This respect for time helps them and everyone else stay on track and get stuff done. It’s not about running around busy; it’s about being smart with their time, which is something amateurs might still be figuring out.

4. They Nail It, Consistently.

two colleagues talking at work

Professionals are all about keeping their work top-notch, all the time. They’ve got their standards and stick to them, making sure everything they do is solid. They take pride in their work and it shows. This consistent quality is what builds trust and keeps people coming back. Amateurs, on the other hand, might be a bit more hit-and-miss, lacking that steady rhythm professionals have got down.

5. They Take Feedback Like a Pro.

colleagues working together in office

Pros know that feedback, good or not-so-good, is golden. They welcome it, use it to up their game, and don’t let it bruise their ego. This openness to hearing what others have to say and using it to improve is what sets them apart from amateurs, who might take criticism a bit too personally.

6. They’ve Got Connections.

Successful businesswoman standing in creative office and looking at camera. Young woman entrepreneur in a coworking space smiling. Portrait of beautiful business woman standing in front of business team at modern agency with copy space.

Networking isn’t just a fancy term for professionals; it’s part of their game plan. They know building a network of contacts is key. These connections can open doors, offer advice, and be a support system. They put in the time to keep these relationships going because they know how valuable they are. Amateurs might not see the big deal about networking or might not put as much effort into keeping those connections alive.

7. They’re All About the Details.

Professionals have an eye for detail that really sets them apart. They catch the little things that others might miss. It’s not about being nitpicky; it’s about making sure everything is just right. Whether it’s double-checking their work, fine-tuning a project, or just making sure everything is on point, their attention to detail makes a big difference. It’s this knack for nailing the small stuff that adds up to big results, something amateurs are still getting the hang of.

8. They Keep Their Cool.

Startup young business team on meeting in modern bright office interior and working together

Staying calm no matter what’s thrown at them is a pro move. Professionals don’t let a tight deadline or a tricky project get them all frazzled. They keep their cool, think things through, and handle it. This chill vibe under pressure isn’t just about keeping stress at bay; it’s about being able to think clearly and make smart moves. This cool-under-fire approach is something that takes time to develop, something amateurs might not have mastered yet.

9. They’re All About Giving Back.

Space, computer and portrait of woman in office at night, working and research idea with mockup screen. Mock up, happy and businesswoman search online for creative design, inspiration and ppt review

Professionals know they didn’t get where they are on their own. So, they make it a point to give back. This could mean mentoring someone just starting out, sharing their knowledge at workshops, or just being there to lend an ear. They remember what it was like to be green and are all about lifting others up. This sense of community and giving back is a big part of what makes a professional stand out from someone who’s just doing a job.

10. They Keep Things Balanced.

Sure, work’s important, but so is life outside of it. Professionals get that and strive for a balance that keeps them happy and healthy. They know when to push hard and when to step back and take a breather. It’s this balance that keeps them sharp and ready to tackle whatever’s next. They don’t let work consume them, which is something that can happen when you’re just starting out and trying to make a mark.

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Gail is Bolde's social media and partnership manager, as well as an all-around behind-the-scenes renaissance woman. She worked for more than 25 years in her city's local government before making the switch to women's lifestyle and relationship sites, initially at HelloGiggles before making the switch to Bolde.
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