One engaged in a profession, characterized by or conforming to the technical or ethical standards of a profession.
High Academic Standards—Having knowledge and skill not possessed by the general public (for example, high levels of technical competence)
Continual Renewal of Knowledge—Staying abreast of developments through journals, publications, conferences, and seminars
Service for Society—Performing services that affect the public health, safety, and welfare (beneficial application of technical competence)
Personal Responsibility for Work—Continually looking for own mistakes and opportunities/methods for improvement
Display of Self-Confidence—Who wants a nervous dentist, unsure of which tooth to drill?
Exercise of Judgment and Discretion—Having flexibility/authority to make decisions based upon a defined body of knowledge
Predominantly Intellectual Work—Generally white-collar and not readily subject to productivity measurement
Regulated/License Usually Required—Quality of work is subject to established standards. Members of the profession risk loss of right to practice for misconduct, incompetence, or gross negligence
Dedication Beyond Pecuniary and PersonalConsiderations—Commitment
to the "calling" with ethics and quality of work transcending any other
issues
Buried somewhere in the notion of being professional “are ethics” or “honest practice.”