In America, I have repeatedly noticed how the word “professional” is perceived. First, it is used very broadly, encompassing an entire class of occupations such as doctors, lawyers, business consultants, teachers, professors, and other white-collar workers. Of course, you might hear phrases like “professional boxer” or “professional dancer,” but in most cases, the term “professional” refers to people engaged in intellectual activities and working within certain standards.
Second, professionalism is closely linked to specific behavior and appearance. To “look and act professionally” means dressing neatly, conservatively, and formally, as well as demonstrating politeness, attentiveness, and proper speech while avoiding slang or informal expressions. Writing professionally is also an important aspect, particularly in emails, where clarity, proper formatting, and polite, concise language are expected norms.
Third, telling someone that they look or act professionally is indeed high praise. Such a remark pertains not only to appearance but also to the overall impression a person makes: neatness, reliability, respect for others, and adherence to expectations—all these are associated with professionalism in American culture.
This approach to professionalism stands out when compared to other cultures, where the emphasis might be more on experience or expertise rather than appearance or behavioral aspects. In the U.S., professionalism is not only about skills but also about the ability to meet high standards of self-presentation.
Alisher Faizullaev 