Professionalism comes in many forms; preparation, the manner in which we hold ourselves, our ability to get things done in an equitable way and even in the clothes we wear. Professionalism, an idea thrown around, often simultaneously with culture, and its exact definition is difficult to pin point, and then comes how to best apply it. Drawing on personal experience, evidenced research and some of the most successful institutes around the globe, I’m going to share a little secret: ‘casual professionalism’ is the new thing, and it’s bringing about some incredible individual and collective results.
We do know that workplaces and clubs all strive for excellence and outcomes which will, in turn, bring a great return for investment, whatever that may be. We also know that, at least in times gone by, professionalism can be the driving force behind success. If not for anything else, professionals look the part – literally and figuratively – and this in itself brought a sense of success. But now, as the practices and methods of approach swings with the times, being a more laid back institute is appealing to not just the laidback soul. Data suggests that casual professionalism is taking over the style we approach business and personal development, let’s find out why. 
It’s been well documented corporate giant Google is the envy of great workplace culture, and it boils down to the small things that keep them ahead of the game. Casual quirks the more uptight business places might deem unprofessional are.now blueprinting the way institutes are dealing with personal relations handle day to day routine, and for the betterment of productivity and financial gain.
 
Subtle changes in the job titles, example: Human Resources (HR) is known as People Operators (PO – or ‘the POPO’) is one way this company is bringing the real personalities out of people and, ultimately, allowing the comfortable work environment required to help employees shine. Another is the space in which the employees inhabit on a daily basis. Instead of office blocks, a rich colour scheme fills open spaces you could be forgiven for thinking were a children’s playground.
 
At the heart of the entity is where the most noted advancement lies, its leaders. The mentality of ‘looking’ the part is not, and, to be honest probably never has been, any match for genuine ‘being’ the part. So, how does this company get it right? Through well-directed data, the POPO found that simply welcoming new employees with a casual interaction, smiles and a personal tour of the spaces, introducing the team of colleagues along the way. And, with this, taking an interest in things other than work has been a game changer. This alone brought about 15% increase in productivity of new employees in their first nine months. Another investment the leaders brought to the fore were perks and plenty of them. Free health care, complimentary meals each day, nap pods, free dry cleaning and haircuts are just the beginning. Seems like dream acquisitions on arrival right? Well if you’re one of the lucky applicants, you’re going to be proud to know you’ve beaten over 2.5 million other budding Google wannabes. All of this, logically seen as crazy spending, costs the company, admittedly, a lot but their team of researchers openly agree it is a worthwhile investment. Considering the company’s pioneer reputation, it is clear their madness has a method. The CEO during the biggest growth period, Larry Page suggests the success of his elite institute lies behind all of this. “Casual collisions are what we try and create in the work environment. You can’t schedule innovation, you can’t schedule idea generation and so when we think about our facilities around the world we’re really looking for little opportunities for engineers or for creative people to come together.” This happens just about everywhere, even in the massage parlor (yes, this is also free).
So away with office cubicles and conference rooms, bring in open planned engaging spaces, where creative minds can interact.
 
Many innovative and progressive companies around the world have found solace in Google’s pioneering pathways around ‘casual professionalism’ and have taken it even further. Picture this; waking up in the morning at your own pace, not that ringing of an alarm. You head into work when your mind is ready to create, not just because there are set hours confining. GitHub, for example, lets creative minds live their dream job in an environment they feel most empowered. Meaning, “if a job allows for it, people should work wherever they’re happiest.” Sounds dreamy indeed but what if your job simply doesn’t allow for it, say, a school? I feel one of the most important things about a school as a workplace is that you feel comfortable in the environment. One which allows one to be crazy, because crazy connects. Leaders should inspire each educator to promote individuality and innovation. Schools should be places where kids and adults can be kids together. It should be fun, engaging and unique. Exploration is where the incidental wonders of the world occur and all workplaces should urge this to the extreme. Mr Page agrees wholeheartedly, “If you’re not exploring, doing things that are crazy, then you’re doing the wrong things.” Now tell me how anyone, in schools or business spaces can do crazy in designer suits and formal attire, whilst camouflaging discomfort (once again, figuratively and literally) behind awkward interaction and angst? I'm not saying go out spending big dollars on perks like Google but please invest a little. The little things count and getting the most of your employees is imperative in establishing your goals. Keep it light, casual and keep it professional. Allow 'casual professionalism'.
 
 Let casual engulf your workplace and let your inner crazy meet innovation, you may be surprised how this new approach inspires you. I’ll leave you with one of Mark Twain’s mightiest quotes, which epitomises this idea so grandly:
“Work and play are words used to describe the same thing under differing conditions, so get to play.”