How is "professionalism" defined by DECA?

Professionalism, as defined by DECA, centers on conducting oneself with integrity and respect. This encompasses a broad range of behaviors and attitudes that reflect a commitment to ethical standards, accountability, and the respectful treatment of others in a business environment. Emphasizing integrity means that individuals act honestly and uphold moral principles in their interactions, while respect involves valuing others’ contributions, opinions, and differences.

In practice, a professional demeanor can significantly enhance collaboration and communication within teams and with clients, creating a positive and productive atmosphere. This definition aligns with DECA's focus on developing leaders in business and marketing who not only strive for success but do so in a manner that is commendable and admirable.

The other choices, while related to aspects of business and performance, do not capture the essence of professionalism. Focusing solely on profit margins misses the ethical dimension, meeting deadlines pertains to time management rather than conduct, and submitting high-quality written reports emphasizes quality but does not address the overall attitude or behavior expected in a professional setting.