Professionalism In The Navy

1. In your own words, define ‘Professionalism’: Professionalism is the ability to put the mission of the ship, morale of the crew, and objectives of the Navy above your own opinions. It is gauged through actions alone. One’s mindset might be that of a professional, but if their actions do not demonstrate it, then they are not a professional. Professionalism is demonstrated multiple times a day even though circulating around the same event. An example would be if a leader is given an order by a senior that they did not agree with, the method that their objection is made will dictate professionalism. They could object publicly or talk to the senior offline as to not make a scene. The way that they delegate this task is also an act of …show more content…
How do you, as a CPO actively teach, uphold, and enforce Navy and command Standards? As a CPO is it my responsibility to teach standards through my actions. Whether I believe it or not, someone looks up to me and will choose to emulate me. If I were to no uphold the standard, this Junior Sailor will believe that the standard does not matter and begin him on a slippery slope that could lead other juniors astray in the future. It is also my responsibility to teach Sailors the magnitude of their influence. It is not enough that I grasp mine, but to help others grasp theirs will ensure that a good example is set throughout the command. All too often charismatic Sailors regardless of rank are revered and emulated by both junior and senior Sailors. It is the responsibility of the Chief to teach that charismatic Sailor the depth of his affect. Lastly, Chiefs are charged with enforcing the standard. Setting the example and education will not reach all Sailors. We need to ensure that the policies and standards are being enforced even if it requires disciplinary action. Chiefs have the unique ability to keep this at the lowest appropriate level, however. It is imperative that we do this. Over reacting can be more detrimental than being too lenient. We need to rely on our mess to make the right decision if a Sailor requires …show more content…
Why is maintaining academic education and training important? Education can be broken down into Technical, Professional, and Academia. All of these are equally important to us for mission completion. As CPOs we are seen as the subject matter experts in our fields. Technical education and training is paramount in today’s ever advancing Navy in keeping us as the subject matter experts. Professional education is equally important. Sailors will always ask the Chief, and that Chief does not necessarily need to know all of the answers off the top of his head but he does need to know who to ask or where to find it. The Chief is also responsible for upholding standards and policies, if they don’t know them, how can they enforce them? Academia helps us in a wide variety of subjects; most notable is professionalism in communications. CPOs are the primary liaison between the lower enlisted ranks and the officers. We need to be able to communicate with them on their level, especially if we are communicating off ship. The grammar and content of our electronic communication speak volumes on the perceived technical proficiency of its originator. If a Chief does not have the education to communicate effectively, it could cast a shadow over them and their Sailors that might not be warranted. Furthermore, Academia allows us to continue the Navy’s good name after we have gone ashore for the final time. An education makes a large difference in the civilian sector, and can lead