My classmates and I recently finished the Business Innovation Program (BIP) – an internship with the CIBE. Throughout our time being part of the BIP, we have learned many different and important tactics to being professional, whether that is what we wear, the words we use in an email, or how we present ourselves. Being professional is what helps drive a salesperson, intern, or interview. In today’s competitive world, showcasing professionalism can set you apart, earn respect, and open doors to new opportunities.
To begin, what does being professional mean? Professionalism depends on the type of environment you are in, but overall professionalism consists of a wide range of behaviors, attitudes, and attributes that define how a person conducts themselves in a business environment. Professionalism helps build trust and allows you to showcase your responsibility, work ethic, but overall, just shows that you care and want to be doing what you are doing.
On June 6th, we traveled to Indy to tour and learn about REVelry, which is a co-working space for young salespeople looking to become involved in a community and learn. Vaughn Taylor ’25 gave us a tour and presented on sales and how to attract customers. One important piece that came out of the presentation was professional emails. Email is one of the most important forms of communication, and a good email will show the person you are trying to contact professionalism. The trip to REVelry taught me many new and exciting tactics to improve my communication, professionalism, and time.
Along the same lines, BIP has given me many opportunities to practice and perfect my professionalism. Each day my classmates and I must come to work looking professional and acting professional. For each speaker we have, we all start by welcoming the speaker in with a round of applause, and then we give all our attention and ears to the speaker.
Being a part of CIBE this summer has really helped me, and my classmates, learn and perfect the skills we need to be professional in the environment we are in. I want to thank all of our speakers and tour guides who took time out of their day to help us learn. BIP has been a great experience, and I am excited for what’s to come.
