There are a lot of challenges in our current situation. Most of us reading this are likely stuck at home, dealing with the challenges there. Some of us reading this may be going through the insanely tough challenge of looking for employment. There also are likely some of us with health issues or dealing with the health issues of those around us. Through it all, there’s a relatively high likelihood that you’re on social media of one form or another, trying to connect with your co-workers, family, friends and acquaintances. The one piece of advice I can offer you that applies any time, but doubles in importance during our current situation, is that you act, communicate, and be, professional.

There can be a lot of baggage associate with the idea of professionalism. Is it about simple competency? Punctuality? Responsibility? Sure, it’s all those. In order to be professional, you must strive for a level of competency. You also have to show up on time, deliver on the things for which you’re responsible, and generally get your work done. That’s all taken for granted. However, there is more to it.

A professional is also able to deal well with others. The easy part is communicating your work and your responsibilities to your teammates and others. The hard part is dealing with adversity. In adversity the professional shines. They listen to others respectfully and actively. The professional doesn’t lash out and get emotional if confronted. The professional largely treats others as they would like to be treated. All this is more important than ever on social media because that public post, that’s forever.

Future customers, clients, co-workers and friends can find that moment when you decided that a sick burn or a hot take or an ad hominem rant was more important than being a professional. The best way to be professional is to act professional. That’s been true in the past and it will be true in the future. Keep it in mind as you engage with others on social media today.