Nail technicians have long understood the value of professionalism both to their pocketbooks and to their self-esteem. Joyce Cooper’s booklet, "12 Ways You Put the “PRO” in Professional," makes it easier to make sure you measure up to the highest standards in the workplace. “It’s the small details that too often get overlooked in our hectic workday that do us in, “says Cooper. From appearance, to communication skills, to problem solving abilities, Cooper’s advice challenges us to put our professional foot forward. For example:

#33 Do fewer things and do them well. Don’t do four things at once and let people, items, and promise fall through the cracks.

#39 Learn and practice the art of keeping in touch with people through notes. Keep your name in front of people.

#58 Practice the art of praising. Look for things people are doing well and tell them. Make people feel important.

#76 Admit mistakes, correct them, and move on. Never blame others when things go wrong. Learn to give a sincere and prompt apology.

#102 Don’t talk with other people in the room while you’re on the phone. It’s rude and it interferes with your ability to communicate with the person on the phone.

#119 Fall in love with your job, if you can’t love your job, you’re in the wrong one.

For reprint and licensing requests for this article, Click here.

Read more about